Panerai PAM790 Review: Controversial Model Guide
Reference Guide

Panerai PAM790 Review: Controversial Model Guide

By pkonos · May 25, 2025 · 33 replies
pkonos
WPS member · Officine Panerai forum
33 replies4363 views4 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

In this insightful article, pkonos delves into the polarizing Panerai PAM790, a reference that challenges traditional Paneristi expectations. He meticulously examines its design deviations from the brand's military heritage, prompting a crucial discussion on what defines a modern Panerai. This exploration offers valuable context for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the brand.

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The PAM 790 and its fair-dialed sibling (the PAM791, not pictured here) are, by most Paneristi measures, decidedly poor raconteurs of Panerai’s (admittedly resurrected) military connection and utilitarian identity.



Let’s take a good look at the PAM790.  

While not exactly effete, it is undeniably prettified in the Panerai order of things:  the dial forsakes all luminous material and is served sans “sandwich” of any sort;  rhodium plated daggers, styled and shiny, tell the time in lieu of broader, lumed, more legible hands;  smallish (but arguably charming?) Art Deco numerals and a fine railroad track insouciantly round the dial’s periphery, further snubbing both practicality and a visual sense of toughness. *

Whither the well-loved, tool-like, rough-hewn aesthetic?




With a lot of show, but no resulting practical go, the PAM790 certainly isn’t going to pass any legibility tests in good standing or be the watch of choice for any off-the-beaten path adventures (whether real or as desk-bound reverie), or be mistaken for imparting the brand’s iconic flavor in a head-to-head taste test with any of its brethren in the Panerai stable.

So, on the one hand, no one can be faulted for dismissing and disparaging this seemingly poor fellow (a.k.a. the “Radiomir 1940 Art Deco,” introduced in 2018) as AWOL, for its want of proper Panerai DNA (and ahem, it often is 😅), but, on the other hand, the PAM790 does have reasonable (100m) water resistance, wears well, and its hand-wound P3000 movement is anecdotally quite robust, keeps good time and has an ample power reserve of 3 days.  The watch does also retain Paneraian case-size massivity which, when combined with its anomalous design elements, exudes an undeniably unique presence on the wrist with a cool, ‘Deco flair, making it a lot of fun and surprisingly versatile to wear, especially on weekends and related (mind you, not overly wayward, rough or raucous) festivities.  



Perhaps, one can rightfully (at least charitably) think of the PAM790 not so much as a rough and ready Panerai in army fatigues, but one taking leave and a lark, decked out in a snappy dress uniform.

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* (The dial design was purportedly inspired by a historic pendulum clock hanging in Panerai’s original boutique in Florence.)



About the Panerai PAM00100 - Radiomir pink gold diamond dial Ref. PAM100

The Panerai PAM100 is a distinctive model within the brand's offerings, notable for its departure from the more utilitarian aesthetic often associated with Panerai. This reference presents a refined interpretation, emphasizing precious materials and a sophisticated dial treatment. It caters to collectors seeking a Panerai that blends the brand's characteristic case design with a luxurious presentation, distinguishing it from tool-watch oriented references.

This particular reference features a 40mm pink gold case, providing a substantial yet wearable presence. The watch is equipped with a mechanical movement, offering a power reserve suitable for daily wear. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance. The construction reflects a commitment to traditional watchmaking standards, with attention to both material selection and finishing.

The PAM100 appeals to collectors interested in Panerai's exploration of high-end materials and finishes. Its diamond dial further positions it as a piece for special occasions or as a statement watch within a collection. This reference represents a facet of Panerai's production that broadens its appeal beyond its traditional military-inspired designs, offering a more opulent option for enthusiasts.

Specifications

Caliber
OP VI
Case
pink gold case
Diameter
40mm
Dial
diamond dial
Water Resist.
50m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
KM
KMII
May 25, 2025
Not an expert at all…

But as you say it takes the design cues and rearranges them somewhat, while keeping a decent WR, should you fall into the pool 😁 And nice looking at that 👌🏻👍🏻

PK
pkonos
May 25, 2025
Thanks KMII ... 😁 I'll watch my footing while poolside !

KM
KMII
May 25, 2025
You’d have to with the Duo but not with this one 😊👍🏻

PK
pkonos
May 26, 2025
Caveat noted ... Take neither the Luminor Due nor the (Reverso) Duo in for soak ! : )

Conversely. I suppose no flipping the 790 over for polo either, with its large display back😁

KM
KMII
May 26, 2025
I guess the polo story…

Was more of a nice story 😉 Something tells me that a polo ball shot in anger would probably damage any mechanical watch it hit quite badly - maybe not break the crystal in this case but the movement would never be the same 🤷🏻‍♂️

PK
pkonos
May 26, 2025
Apocryphal, huh?! Thank you, I did not know that and stand enlightened! 🧐🙏

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