New PAM578 3d printed titanium case

[Olahf]

My inner child screaming " I want it I want it make it a thing" .This thing is absolutely amazing.
http://www.paneraicentral.com/panerai-embraces-3d-printing-technology-in-the-new-pam578/

 

[nalomb]

Nice find! I am in the minority that loves these skeleton tourbillons, but I'm surprised this manufacturing note wasn't more a part of the SIHH release -- big news and idea IMO. If this technique becomes more prevalent in the Swiss watchmaking industry, there could be a lot of cool new concepts on the horizon.

I searched for a cross-section look of the case (and doubt it would be released this quickly) to see where they trimmed material, but if anyone finds one, that could be very useful. I would also be concerned about possible weakness to stress points, but I'm sure the Panerai folks have taken that into account. Hopefully ...

 

[Olahf]

I work in the additive manufacturing field so I have a good idea of the process that goes into DMLS printing. It is truly remarkable with what you can do with metal printing. How Panerai is reducing weight is by embedding lattice structures in non critical areas of the case. You can retain strength by engineering the honeycomb structure. These eos machines let you have extreme precision on how you lay down the individual layers of powdered titanium. You can control the grainularity of the layers so each successive layer adds to its strength. I really love seeing Panerai go out and try these new materials and manufacturing processes.

 

[mskwatch]

too bad it will never repped