Panerai’s yachting experiences this year have been nothing short of remarkable, with over 80 yachts flying across some of the world’s most amazing seas. September 21st through the 28th is in fact the 11th and climactic stage of the circuit for this event’s tenth year race.

All 80 of the yachts in this race have been built between the end of the 19th century and the present decade and they will gather in the city of Cote d’Azur to begin battle for the competitions ultimate rewards; a set of exclusive Panerai watches for the winners of various main categories, and also a trophy that will act as spoil to the winner of the entire season.

Cannes (where the finale is launching from) is expecting tens of thousands of spectators to swarm the Regates Royales in attempt to see some of the most elegant sailing yachts ever built. These ships have been penned by some of the world’s most renowned architects including the Americans Olin Stephens, Nathanael G. Herreshoff, the Scottish Fife di Fairlie, Brits Camper & Nicholson and the Italian duo of Cesare Sangermani and Carlo Sciarrelli. Five races are scheduled through this Saturday (the 27th) and will bring closure to this year’s competition.

All the yachts in the competition are being divided into one of three categories for their competitions. There are 42 “Vintage” yachts, 13 “Classic” yachts and 12 “Spirit of Tradition” yachts. The categories will also take into account the meter class of each vessel – they are either 6 meters, 8 meters or 12 meters. The 12 meter yachts in particular have put up some remarkable records in the history of the American Cup.

As happens each year, there will also be a series of competitions and other side events on the dockside for the crews. These range from mast climbing to tug of war, a painting competition, music concerts, and breakfasts and cocktails every day before and after the racing in the Officine Panerai Lounge.

Our favorite Florentine luxury sports watch-maker Officine Panerai still remains the world’s leading organizer of classic worldwide yachting events, and they had a whopping 11 races planned for 2014 alone. Panerai has also acknowledged its deep connection with classic sailing by creating watches with race-specific functions, most recently the Luminor 1950 Regatta 3 Days Chrono Flyback Titanio, a chronograph that brings a revolutionary simplicity to calculating race start times. Take a look at their website for more detailed information about it and some breathtaking images of it…

And as always keep an eye on DaLuca’s shop and of course the blog (which you are currently reading) for all sorts of Panerai news and of course only the most quality, handmade Panerai accessories.