Panerai Watch Size: Too Big?

Arie - Mr Orange · 2019-03-12T01:47:31Z

Are Panerai watches too big? Join the debate on Panerai sizing and comfort. Collectors discuss wearability, design intent, and personal preferences for large watches.

Arie (Mr Orange) sparks a lively debate by declaring that Panerai watches, particularly those 42mm and larger, are 'simply too big' and uncomfortable for his wrist, despite his appreciation for their design. His post, accompanied by wrist shots, challenges the community's perceptions of Panerai sizing and wearability.

And according to some I’ve got Sasquatch wrists. Nevertheless 42 mm plus watches are not comfortable to wear. Fact. And I still own 2 PAMs and I have owned 2 more, but I will never buy one again. No matter how cool the design is.

I do like the Mare Nostrum tho 😬

Key Points from the Discussion

Many Paneristi argue that Panerai watches are designed to be large for legibility, especially underwater, and that their size is part of their iconic identity, not a flaw.
Wrist size does not solely determine wearability; some collectors with smaller wrists (e.g., 6.75 inches) comfortably wear 47mm Panerais, noting that case height can be a more significant factor than diameter.
While some find larger Panerais uncomfortable for daily wear, preferring 40mm watches or those on bracelets, others prioritize the brand's aesthetic and historical design over absolute comfort.
The Radiomir case, being thinner than the Luminor, is often cited as a more comfortable option for larger Panerai sizes, even at 47mm.
Collectors often own a diverse range of watches, from small (36-38mm) to large (47mm) pieces, indicating that personal preference for a brand's unique character can override conventional sizing norms.
The sentiment 'wear what you like and what makes you happy' is a recurring theme, emphasizing that personal enjoyment and comfort should dictate watch choices, regardless of external opinions on size.

The Discussion

Baron - Mr Red

Mar 12, 2019

Some watches are designed to fit around a wrist better than others.

Watchonthewrist

Mar 12, 2019

My LW is 44mm but still great on the wrist imho

jaychang777

Mar 12, 2019

always loved the look of PAM, but too big - the 38 one doesn’t feel right either

Poky

Mar 12, 2019

Even 40 mm is too big, certainly for my wrist. I think a watch looks much nicer when the case and lugs sits shorter than the wrist margins.

crown comfort

Mar 12, 2019

even needs to order extra links for a Rolex bracelet..

Greenwatch

Mar 12, 2019

And maybe that’s the reason why the Luminor Due line was conceived and created.

Key Points from the Discussion

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