Panerai PAM87 1000m Submersible Retrospective

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MichaelC reflects on his repeated ownership of the Panerai PAM87 1000m Submersible, a watch he has acquired three times. He delves into its controversial history, design evolution across different series, and the unique characteristics that make it a significant piece in Panerai's dive watch lineage.

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Have you ever owned the same watch twice?

I have, and in fact, this PAM87 3 times! My very first Panerai, purchased in 2001, was the PAM87 D series. In many ways, this watch is nothing short of a controversial offering from Panerai, and as we look back, we can see the dangerous trail this watch has blazed. Of course, I am referring to the fact that in 2000, Panerai launched the famous PAM64 Limited Edition "La Bomba" 1000 meter Submersible with a black dial and silver sub seconds. Merely 1 year later, Panerai would bring out the exact same watch in a regular edition, changing only the dial color. Not the kind of news that is well received by brand collectors and passionate fans.

For me, I had the choice of either dial at the time, and I elected to purchase the 87D.

I happen to have a photo of a PAM64C next to my last sample, the 87H. At this point, the 87 had undergone its dial change from the E to F series. The 87 D/E watches had a lighter shade of blue and dial features more similar to the 64. The big differences you can see below are the position and style of the hour markers. On the 87, starting with the F series, the markers became trimmed in steel and pushed to the edge of the dial, interrupting the white minute track.

This new style dial on the 87 is what made me sell me D series to purchase an F series, and later this H series which is shown in all of the following photos. I liked the darker shade of blue and new dial features.

Panerai's 44mm 1000m case type is quite possible the chunkiest feeling Panerai I have ever worn. The subtle change of pushing the hour markers outward gave the dial a larger appearance.

You can also see some refinement in the markings on the bezel.

This photo really captures the dial shade of the 87F-H dials.

This watch used Tritium markers right up to the end of its production. Not the best lume photo below, but the 1000m was easily read in low light situations.

I enjoyed the 87H on the newer style Panerai rubber strap and it paired quite well. This watch is perhaps the most top heavy piece I have ever worn, and a rigid strap helped control the weight.

Panerai has tweaked the bezel of the Submersible series many times over the years. I always thought the style used on the 87 was just right, with the varying weight black 15 minute scale, size and style of the 5 minute extruded metal circles, and edge coining.

Once subtle detail to set apart the PAM87 from its predecessor was the cool "1000m" marking on the rotating lever.

A watch of this brute size is best worn with short sleeves, and in tough environments. Some collectors speak about "desk diving" and wear their watch picks up from the normal routine. When you have a Panerai 44mm 1000m watch strapped on, it is not the watch that is in danger, but anything else that might encounter it.

And with longer sleeves, you need a loose cuff to clear this monster.

I'm not certain why I did not keep my PAM87H. It was the last of the 87s, a small edition of 300 pieces if I recall correctly. I do miss it. Enough to acquire it for the 4th time? Well, never say never, and 4 is my favorite number ;-)

About the Panerai Mare Nostrum Steel Ref. PAM300

The PAM300 represents Panerai's Mare Nostrum series in a steel case configuration. This reference delivers the Mare Nostrum design in brushed steel construction with a substantial 52mm case diameter.

The watch features a brushed steel case measuring 52mm across, paired with a matching brushed steel bezel. Protection comes from 1.6mm sapphire crystal, while water resistance extends to 30 meters. The movement is the Calibre OP XXV, housed within the steel case construction.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a large-format steel sports watch from Panerai's Mare Nostrum collection. The 52mm case size positions it for those who prefer substantial wrist presence, while the brushed steel finishing provides a utilitarian aesthetic. The PAM300 offers an entry point into the Mare Nostrum series for collectors focused on steel case variants.

Specifications

Caliber: OP XXV

Case: Brushed Steel

Diameter: 52mm

Dial: Blue

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: 1.6mm Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The PAM87's release as a regular edition, closely following the limited PAM64 'La Bomba', was controversial among collectors due to the similar design and features.
Key differences between the PAM64 and PAM87 include the dial color, the position and style of hour markers (trimmed in steel and pushed to the edge on later 87 series), and bezel markings.
The PAM87, particularly the F-H series, features a darker blue dial and refined painted markers, which some collectors prefer over the earlier D/E series.
Despite some opinions, there are no specific inherent problems or common repair issues with the PAM87 movement or construction.
The 44mm 1000m case type is noted for its chunky feel and top-heavy nature, often requiring a rigid strap for comfortable wear.
The '1000m' marking on the rotating lever is a subtle detail that distinguishes the PAM87 from its predecessor.

The Discussion

amanico

Aug 31, 2014

I do agree with you that the Pam 87 opened a dangerous door, totally agree with that. As for the différences, there is another big one, the bezel and specially the zone between 0 and 15. On the Pam 64 the indexes were longer. Both had a lot of character. The Bomba has the merit to have been the first big modern Panerai Submersible. Monstruous, in black or in blue, but both delicious. Yes, I would well see it coming back for the 4th time in your collection! ;) All the best, Nicolas.

AnthonyTsai

Aug 31, 2014

I think you'll be coming back to the 1000m Submersible :) Once you had enough time with your AP Offshores and want a break from them, you'll have the itching to get another La Bomba. Cheers, Anthony

D-

d-star

Aug 31, 2014

I've thought about acquiring the 87 many times. In general I like blue dial watches. I knew about the different shades of blue depending on series, however, I did not know about the difference with the hour markers. Sharp eyes and thanks for pointing it out.

MichaelC

Sep 3, 2014

Very bold, and probably more congruent with the black dial. The later 87s have more refinement with the painted markers, and that suits the newer dial design, IMO. Thanks for reading the article Nicolas.

MichaelC

Sep 3, 2014

Makes me really miss it. One day, perhaps...

MichaelC

Sep 3, 2014

I like the charm of the 87D/E, but prefer the larger looking dial and additional refinements on the F-H. Certainly one to keep an eye out for pre-owned.

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Panerai PAM87 1000m Submersible Retrospective

About the Panerai Mare Nostrum Steel Ref. PAM300

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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