Sylvester Stallone's Panerai Luminor from "Daylight" 1993 - famous movie watches

We're used to it from the action heroes of the 80s: They beat everyone and everything. In Sylvester Stallone's case, even watch manufacturers. Until 1993, Panerai supplied the Italian Navy with watches. When the contract expired and civilians were supposed to become the new buyer group, the business reportedly faltered. However, Stallone bought a Panerai Luminor in Rome, wore it in his next film, Daylight , and subsequently gave away engraved Panerais to friends – and after so much muscular PR, the business ran like clockwork.

On December 12, several Panerai watches were auctioned at Philips' flagship auction, Racing Pulse. The highlight was the "Luminor PAM5218-201/A," which was personally presented by multiple Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner Sylvester Stallone and changed hands for $214,200 after less than five minutes of bidding.

The “Luminor” was the trigger for Panerai’s international success.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be witnessing a historic moment that is so inextricably linked to both the beginnings and the future of Panerai,” said Jean-Marc Pontroué, CEO of Panerai.

"As a brand, we have always had our sights set on the maximum possible, yet we have also always remained firmly connected to the principles and foundations of our past. Following the success of the first Phillips auction in Hong Kong a few weeks ago, this is a strong signal that Panerai continues to hold a firm place in the hearts of the collector community.

Through our partnership with Phillips, we are proud to offer watch lovers around the world a unique timepiece that embodies our pioneering spirit like no other."

The auction also included two important LAB-ID watches: First, the first-generation LAB-ID PAM700, which comes with a unique 50-year warranty. The timepiece changed hands for $69,300.

Also auctioned was Panerai’s latest creation, the next-generation LAB-ID PAM1700, launched to mark the 70th anniversary of the Luminor collection.

As part of the partnership between Panerai and Phillips, this watch was offered to the public for the first time. A private collector was able to purchase the first "Millesimation" of this limited edition of just 70 watches for $81,900.

The "PAM5218-201/A Luminor" was personally presented by Sylvester Stallone. This remarkably well-preserved watch, featuring the rare original sharkskin leather strap with original Panerai clasp, was worn by lead actor Sylvester Stallone in the film "Daylight."

He loved it so much that he didn't take it off until the end of filming. The actor later stated that the watch, which has been in his possession ever since, "went through hell in every scene." The lot, "Panerai 5218-201/A," included the original box, two additional Panerai straps with clasps, and the original brass screwdriver.

In addition to a note personally signed by Stallone, the auction also included the original lobby card for Daylight from 1996, issued by the studio. Stallone also personally signed this one with a special reference to this watch. Estimate: $40,000–$80,000, Hammer price: $214,200.

World premiere: A flawless example of the “Millesimation #1” from a limited edition of 70 pieces.

Launched to mark the 70th anniversary of the Luminor collection.

Estimate: US$30,000 to US$60,000, Hammer price: US$81,900.

Source: watchpro.com