Italian watchmaker opens first D.C.-area store in Tysons Galleria

When Panerai was scouting potential locations for its first-ever store in the D.C. region, Tysons Galleria emerged as an appropriate choice for the self-described “luxury” Italian watchmaker.

The company’s new boutique opened yesterday (Wednesday) on the mall’s second floor, between stores for Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen and Montblanc, which also sells watches as well as pens and leather goods.

“Tysons Galleria has stood up to its reputation as a premier shopping destination in the D.C. area, something that truly resonates with our brand ethos,” a Panerai spokesperson said. “Given Panerai’s product line and appeal, Tysons instantly became a fit as it has successfully connected and met the rising demands of local shoppers for luxury goods.”

The over-400-square-foot store features a VIP lounge for private consultations and was designed based on a new concept by Panerai Creative Director Alvaro Maggini.

According to a press release, the design was inspired by “industrial architecture and the sea world, paying homage to Panerai’s craftsmanship in watchmaking and ties to the Italian Navy.”

Upon entering, Panerai exhibits a warm, inviting space that instantly diffuses the brand’s adventurous and bold appeal. The decor’s unique features include custom Italian furniture, dark ceilings, concrete walls, veined marble flooring, and Panerai’s signature luminous green wall clock. This latest creative concept transforms the store’s atmosphere and reimagines the brand’s relationship with its customers: making it a destination for leisure, connection, and compelling experiences.

Founded in 1860, the business was started in Florence, Italy, by Giovanni Panerai as the city’s first watch-making school and a shop that supplied the Italian Royal Navy.

Panerai didn’t introduce civilian watch collections until 1993, according to its website, which also highlights its development of a custom-made model for actor Sylvester Stallone to wear in the 1996 movie “Daylight.”

The company now has over 250 boutiques worldwide, including about 60 locations in the U.S.

Panerai is the latest new tenant to open at Tysons Galleria in recent weeks, following IWC, the restaurants Yard House and Jiwa Singapura, and the dine-in movie theater CMX CinéBistro. Other openings include the home furniture store Azzurri and the menswear outlet Indochino.

Electric car manufacturer Lucid Motors has also opened a delivery and service center with a showroom next to Bowlero.