Worn by: Sylvester Stallone as Kit Latura
Reference: Panerai Luminor
Brand: Panerai
Kit Latura is a former Emergency Medical Services chief who becomes trapped in a collapsed New York City tunnel after a truck explosion, racing against time to rescue survivors while confronting his past demons and failed marriage. Stallone's discovery of Panerai while filming in Italy in 1993 created one of cinema's most significant watch-actor partnerships. The reference 5218-201/a represents Panerai's civilian debut—only 677 pieces were produced in 1993 as the brand's first limited edition for public sale after decades of exclusively military production. The "Pre-Vendome" designation indicates manufacture before Richemont's 1997 acquisition, making these among the most collectible modern Panerais. At this time, Panerai was virtually unknown outside military and Italian diving circles, making it an insider's choice that reflected both rarity and serious tool-watch credentials. The 44mm cushion case and distinctive crown-protecting bridge derived directly from 1950s Italian Navy frogman watches. The sandwich dial construction—with luminous material applied beneath a cutout dial plate—ensured legibility in the film's dark underground sequences. Stallone wore this exact watch throughout filming and stated it "went through hell in every scene." This appearance launched Panerai into Hollywood consciousness and established the brand's action-hero identity. The watch later sold at Phillips auction in 2020 for $214,200.