Rovermark shares his rapid re-entry into the Paneristi community with the acquisition of two new Panerai watches, including the PAM 392. His post highlights the distinct appeal of Panerai's design elements and offers a direct comparison between the 42mm PAM 392 and the 44mm PAM 312. This review provides valuable insights for collectors considering Panerai's diverse offerings and case sizes.
I recently posted about the PAM 337 that I purchased about two months ago. In my response to Anthony’s post I mentioned that I was thinking about buying a 392 later this year. By coincidence I had been by the boutique earlier in the week and they happened to have one in stock. As I was responding to Anthony it occurred to me that I was definitely going to buy one. It also occurred to me that if I waited until later then the boutique might not have one in inventory and might have to order it. With a little self-rationalization I realized that waiting until later in the year was a completely arbitrary restriction. So Friday I stopped by the boutique and became the proud owner of a PAM 392.
I’m really loving it. It has all of the Panerai elements that have appealed to me over the years. It has a two-layer dial, the font that the dial forces, the crown protector, and the 1950’s style case. Best yet, at 42mm it is the perfect size for my wrist.
The PAM 392 features the P 9000 automatic movement:
A newer feature that I really like is the quick change strap system. To release the strap you just push a little button and press the bar out through the side of the lug. Panerai included a tool for this with the watch.
Just for fun while I was at the boutique I tried on the PAM 312, which is basically the same watch just in a 44mm size. As I expected I felt it was a bit too big for my wrist.
Here's a comparison of the PAM 392 and the 312. There is only a 2mm difference, yet it is quite noticeable.
So within two months I have added two Panerai watches to my collection. One Luminor, one Radiomir. One automatic, one manual wind. One from the Historic collection, one from the Contemporary collection. Both a comfortable 42mm. Basically a nice little cross section of the brand's offerings.
All in all, not a bad reintroduction to the brand. Sure two Panerai's in two months is a bit crazy, but it is a good kind of crazy. Besides, it could have been worse. The boutique could also have had a PAM 173 travel alarm clock in stock. I might have ended up with three Panerai's instead of two : )
About the Panerai Luminor 1950 3 Days Automatic Ref. PAM312
The Panerai Luminor 1950 3 Days Automatic PAM312 represents a pivotal moment in the brand s modern evolution, bridging Panerai s military heritage with contemporary horological excellence. Introduced as part of the brand s commitment to in-house movement development, this reference showcases the iconic Luminor 1950 case architecture that pays homage to the historic timepieces supplied to the Italian Navy s elite frogmen commandos. The PAM312 embodies the essential DNA of Panerai s design language while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques and materials that elevate it beyond mere historical recreation to become a sophisticated tool watch for the contemporary collector.
At the heart of the PAM312 beats the Calibre P.9000, a robust automatic movement that marked Panerai s significant investment in manufacturing independence. This movement delivers an impressive 72-hour power reserve through its twin mainspring barrels, while maintaining exceptional reliability and precision. The 13¼ lignes movement features 29 jewels and operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, providing the smooth seconds hand sweep characteristic of modern Swiss movements. The P.9000 s architecture includes a convenient quickset hour hand function, allowing travelers to adjust local time without disturbing the running seconds or minute accuracy.
The 44mm brushed steel case exemplifies Panerai s masterful approach to proportions and finishing, featuring the signature crown-protecting bridge that defines the Luminor collection. The polished steel bezel creates an elegant contrast against the brushed case surfaces, while the distinctive black sandwich dial ensures optimal legibility with its luminous Arabic numerals and indices. Protected by a substantial 2.6mm sapphire crystal and rated to 300 meters water resistance, the PAM312 maintains the tool watch credibility that collectors expect from the marque. This reference has achieved strong recognition among enthusiasts as an accessible entry point into Panerai s in-house movement offerings, combining iconic design elements with modern horological sophistication that positions it as both a daily wearing piece and a significant addition to any serious Panerai collection.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. P9010
- Case
- Brushed Steel
- Diameter
- 44mm
- Dial
- black
- Water Resist.
- 300m
- Crystal
- 2.6mm Sapphire
About the Panerai Luminor Ref. PAM1080
The Panerai Luminor PAM1080 is a distinctive interpretation within the Luminor collection, characterized by its specific aesthetic and technical configuration. This reference is notable for its particular dial execution and case finishing, which set it apart from other contemporary Luminor models. It represents a specific period in the brand's production, appealing to collectors who appreciate variations in design and material application within the established Luminor framework.
This Luminor model typically features a robust case construction, consistent with the series' design principles. The movement housed within is engineered for reliability and precision, offering a practical power reserve suitable for daily wear. The crystal protecting the dial is designed for clarity and durability, ensuring legibility and protection for the intricate dial details.
For collectors, the PAM1080 offers a specific point of interest due to its limited availability and unique characteristics. Its appeal lies in its particular combination of elements, which may include subtle differences in dial texture, numeral application, or case treatment compared to more common Luminor references. This makes it a sought-after piece for those assembling a comprehensive collection of Panerai variations.
Specifications
- Caliber
- OP XI
- Case
- Titanium
- Diameter
- 44mm
- Dial
- Brown
- Water Resist.
- 300m
- Crystal
- Sapphire