
AnthonyTsai introduces Panerai's significant SIHH 2012 release: the PAM392 and PAM393, the brand's first-ever 42mm Luminor Marina 1950 3 Days Automatics. This post details the design choices, including the in-house P.9000 movement and dial variations, and discusses how these models cater to collectors with smaller wrists while maintaining Panerai's iconic aesthetic. Anthony's insights provide a valuable first look at these important new references.
Panerai released its first ever 42mm Luminors - the PAM392 in stainless steel ($7,800) & PAM393 in red gold ($25,900).
PAM392 in stainless steel
PAM393 in red gold
I believe Panerai did this because they wanted to incorporate the in-house P.9000 movement in a smaller Luminor case. My guess is the 40mm Luminor case didn't work that well (maybe just a tad too small) so they decided to create a 42mm Luminor case? That would seem to be a logical reason IMO.
Many with small wrists have long time complained that the 44mm Luminors don't fit their wrists and that 44mm is just way too large. Well ... if you're on of these people, then definitely take a look at these smaller 42mm Luminors. They feel slightly larger on the wrist than the 40mm Luminors but not by that much. For those who only wear 44mm and 47mm Panerai's, you probably won't notice much difference between wearing a 40mm or 42mm Luminor IMO. I hardly noticed any difference as the increase in case size seems miminal on my wrist.
The PAM393 in red gold has a tobacco dial while its stainless steel counterpart utilizes a black dial. The cases of both models are all brushed finished except the bezels which are polished. The tang buckle is polished as well.
It'll be interesting to see if these new 42mm Luminors will gain traction with the die hard Panerai collectors. I don't think they will since they're targetted more towards the general watch fan who happens to like the Panerai design. But nevertheless, with the P.9000 movement into these 42mm Luminors, I would expect a manual wind version of the P.9000 movement to be housed in these new 42mm Luminors later in the future. So if you're waiting for a manual version of the PAM392 or PAM393, you'll wish will probably come true but I don't know how many year(s) you'll have to wait!
Below are videos the PAM392 & PAM393 so you can see them "live" virtually. Enjoy!
Cheers,
Anthony
PAM392 video
PAM393 video
The PAM392 represents the Luminor Marina 1950 3 Days Automatic in a 42mm steel configuration within Panerai's Luminor Marina series. This reference offers the three-day power reserve functionality in a mid-sized case format for the collection.
The 42mm polished steel case features a brushed steel bezel and houses the Calibre P.9000 automatic movement. Water resistance extends to 100 meters, while a 1.8mm sapphire crystal protects the dial. The steel construction provides durability in a refined finish combination of polished and brushed surfaces.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking Panerai's three-day movement technology in a versatile 42mm steel case. The PAM392 positions itself as an accessible entry point within the Luminor Marina range, offering core complications without precious metal pricing. The steel construction and moderate case size make this reference suitable for regular wear while maintaining the distinctive Luminor Marina aesthetic.
These watches appear very thick. Are they any thinner than the 44mm versions? In my opinion, the 44mm are too thick already. Thanks.
Here's a comparison pic of a 42mm PAM392 (on left) with a 44mm Panerai on the right. Cheers, Anthony And here's a wrist shot of the PAM392 42mm Luminor
I think its great (as I am not a DNA die hard), that they have done this size, its going to be a great seller, but I still think it too thick in proportion to its width However, IF they make a manual cal.9000 thin case base version...that will be HOT Best Imran
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