sergio
[Panerai Moderator]
5149
It has to do with....
...the fact that original Panerais were quintessential tools. 3-6-9-12, manual winding, very visible dials and luminous for night operations (the seconds counter was added at a later stage) This and the history associated with this brand, was what attracted the grassroot Panerista. These simple concepts have been turned, in recent years, into quasi-jewels (perfect for happy hour) with busy dials and push bottons that, I'm sure, include one that brews espressos. That's why people that really..REALLY like Panerai would only consider models reminiscent of glorious-times-gone-by. The more extremist consider anything smaller than 47mm an aberration. I'm an unsophisticated man (some would say downright primitive) and as such, I had no idea about perfect dial's dimentions (I've actually never measured my wrist) but when I saw the PAM249, I saw the light...a-la-Blues brothers...and bought it instantly. The fact that it was a 47mm watch, never even crossed my mind 
BTW I don't agree with the..last of the best..description but hey, you know about opinions right? They are producing regularly some special etitions models (specifically for the uncompromising aficionados) Personally I like the 372 a lot. The 422 not so much. If the seconds counter is a must for the user, I prefer dials with the seconds counter AND the 9. Cheers and good luck with your "familiarization" about things Panerai
Last of the best?
Yes to some degree. I own both. If I had to only pick one it would be the 372 but I also love the 422. It’s a bit thicker and heavier then the 372.
A little under 7” as i may have lost a few lbs..
It has to do with....
