ArmisT
8897
Beautiful black-cased PAMs
In context of the recent re-release of the PAM 5218, I became curious about other relatively rare PVD and DLC case models. Note that I’m not counting the more modern ceramic and carbotech models.I briefly tried researching the topic but still don’t have a full picture, so i’m hoping Sergio and/or other members can clarify. I may be over generalizing, but my impression is that these were all Pre-V, 44mm cases that were/are used for limited/special edition and anniversary models. The prime examples I found that stood out were PAM 4, 9, 26, 360 (for Paneristi), 594 & 649 (each part of a 2-watch collection with a white dial PAM). There’s probably a couple of others that were for the Paneristi anniversaries. I was surprised to see that others like the 594 also had mismatched coloring of the dial like the original 5218, although I don’t know if this was natural patina or applied patina.
The use of “Black Seal” on select pieces also stood out, which made me wonder about the distinction from Marina Militaire wording…aren’t they all Navy military watches?? My understanding is that MM is the general Italian navy, but the Black Seal refers to the elite Gamma Group who are akin to the elite U.S. Navy SEALS.
I’m sure this is all common knowledge for most of you, but I find this pattern of Panerai’s use of blackened cases fascinating. We don’t see these models posted, which I assumed may be due to their high value which turned them into safe queens. I still don’t understand exactly what started this practice and why it’s for seemingly limited/special models. So, if anyone can shed light on the origin story then that would be great to learn.
In my search of this forum for the PAM 594, I found the below wrist shot by chronos-lorien a long time ago.
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Beautiful black-cased PAMs
In context of the recent re-release of the PAM 5218, I became curious about other relatively rare PVD and DLC case models. Note that I’m not counting the more modern ceramic and carbotech models.I briefly tried researching the topic but still don’t have a...
Yes, the Black Seal was a good one.
Agreed that it is a tempting one. Along with the new 5218; very Pre Vendome. Why not? Best, Nicolas ...
WOW, what an amazing set!
I understand now that the color of hands/markers was fauxtina, not natural discoloration over time. Still, I don’t mind fauxtina when executed nicely in overall presentation.
Oh, I wish I had a specimen like that to wear…
this wrist shot was forum member chronos-lorien from 2015!
A quote from SJX:
“ The “vintage” models like the Luminor ref. 5218-202/A were even more valuable; it cost a healthy, mid-five figures at the time. In fact, the ref. 5218-202/A cost more than an F.P. Journe Resonance at the time”
I did see some mentions of surprisingly high values in the past…
then they must have come down significantly over the subsequent years as Nico points out.
There were two runs of the 26.
I owned the reissue, with was the 26K if I recall correctly. I should have kept that one but for some reason never really gelled with it at the time. Probably it being a “destro”. Missing also is the 195, the original Paneristi PVD anniversary piece. This...
Yes, I noticed the 195 that was part of the Hammer auction collection.
The 599 (Revolution 10th anniversary) is another beauty I just found out about. I see what you mean about the grayish coloration which I like much more…but I couldn’t tell what was lighting effect in pictures.
Very, very nice. The PVD seems to hold up solidly in the pics I’ve seen…
again because owners are likely very careful and limited in how much they wear the pieces. This is a notable advantage of the modern materials i.e. ceramic and carbotech, which are also lighter for longer periods of wear. But those modern materials are a ...
Sergio is a bit..under the wheather..sigh
I did find a Black Seal explanation on Google Also, the PVD cases which were used during the Pre-V period, were not "reserved" for special editions, after the sale. They just were used and never re-ordered again (from the same supplier presumably) Some of...
Amazing, you always add that extra and rare value to the discussion! I hadn’t seen anything noted about the difference in case shapes, which is quite notable!
Also, the basic point about suppliers makes a lot a sense as opposed to “special” release cases. It is the nostalgia of it all that makes the recent return of the 5218 nice, in part. It can never be exactly the same, but still a very nice addition.