Horological Meandering

I am between a sea dweller-40mm...42mm explorer 2 or a Panerai 233...dot dial...these are available to me and I am thinking strongly about the 233...I would appreciate any opinions, especially from any 233 owners about comfort, and enjoyment of the piece...past or present...thank you!

If GMT, I'd go for the Explorer 2. Otherwise, the Sea Dweller. If you want a Panerai, look for a different model without the silly power reserve indicator.

He asked between a few Rolexes and one specific Panerai. I’m 100% unsurprised by this that many chime in saying the 233 is not the best Panerai to consider, is not a “real Panerai”, etc. etc.

He didn’t ask “which Panerai should I get?” he asked if he should get either one of two Rolexes or the 233 specifically.

We all hate the hype aspect of particular watches and want everyone to think on their own, yet when they are not choosing the best according to the mob they are made to feel they have chosen incorrectly.

You know me, I freaking managed a Panerai Boutique for 8.5 years, so obviously I understand the nuance of this conversation and what you and others meant (and I do believe with only good intentions). Is the 233 the one I would suggest of all the infinite PAMs out there… nope. Is it a cool watch for a guy that wants a more complicated timepiece with long reserve? Yep. As an observer from afar, 233 with its domed crystal does look pretty slick on the wrist.

My dream PAM if any these days is a PAM80. That’s sure as hell an oddball selection to the guy looking to start out with the brand but I’d be willing to bet as unconventional as that one is, I’d get a lot more cheers than jeers here and thats nowhere near a real Panerai.

Sorry to unload on you but you’re my closest friend here and I know you can take it! 🤜🤛

RANT OVER.

42mm Rad case and Jumping seconds complication with a little cyclops to highlight the components for the jumping mechanism. Odd ball to the max and in my book one of the coolest non-“Real Panerai” ever made.

I always liked the 233. It's got nice flat beveled and nicely polished anglage on the movement plates. Sandwich dial. 1950s case. 1950s curved sapphire glass. It's a good l looking watch. Personally, I don't think 8 days of power reserve is necessary. And I don't especially like the Power Reserve, but I don't dislike it neither. But I really do like the finishing on the 233, it's a well finished movement, especially for a tool watch. The 233 is reasonably comfortable - although I never wore one for more than a couple days at a time (a borrowed watch from a friend who loaned it to me to make sure it was working well, and it was, I have never owned one). The power reserve takes a while to wind up (as all 8 day movements take a long time to wind) but at the crown is at least large enough to make winding easy - Jaeger-LeCoultre has an 8 day power reserve for REVERSO models and the crown is rather small, the resistance starting around day 6 makes the crown difficult to wind. Overall, as far as "complex Panerai" go, the 233 is definitely one of the higher end ones. Do I like the 233? Yes! I do! Would I buy one? I'd probably buy a cheaper and simpler model as I don't need the complexity - but those simpler models may not have that movement finishing I like that's exhibited on the 233 nor will it necessarily have the nice 1950s case with the 1950s curved sapphire glass. Also the 233 does look great on my wrist! I was a little sad to give it back to my friend.

There are better Panerai models 😃

Panerai is best enjoyed in its simplest, boldest form, like single malt or a good steak, PR and date on the dial is considered a distraction by many if you have multiple watches.

I do however have a soft spot for the 233

Or a novice Panerai aficionado, a 44mm Luminor case is the way to go IMO.
Otherwise, it's like asking a new driver to drive all the way to Stelvio Pass, in a Lancia delta integrale, but that is enough reason for us to enjoy the photo....

In my perception, every watch collector should have a Panerai, its fun, its shape/design and wide thick straps  makes it comfortable on the wrist.

👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼

If that model is available to you in good condition and at a good price, don’t let the opportunity go. That is an epic watch in all proportions, especially if it’s an early series.

I'd narrow it down to the two rolexes. To me they're just more wearable, better looking, more versatile and nothing in the world beats the feeling of a modern Rolex on the wrist, with the amazing bracelet quality and the sleekness. But I'm not a fan of Panerai anyways so maybe I'm wrong.

8 days and gmt function? To be fair, I’ve read reviews where they say the 233 is a great travel watch.

With your wrist, I think you’ll enjoy a 47mm panerai over those 2 Rolex options. While I would recommend a 372, I’m thinking you have reasons for picking a gmt panerai as an option.

Personally I would stay away from Richemont. I’m sorry but they have quality control issues and Rolex most definitely does not. If you buy an SD you will be protecting your investment plus IIMO the SD is a MUCH cooler piece. You might also consider the YM.

and still own a few. I had a 233 also. Reason to buy it: the first 8days power reserve made by Panerai. I was not a Panerai maniac at the time and I was convinced by a friend that the 233 was a MUST to have for any collector. So, I bought one. That being said, after no more than 1 month, I couldn't give it away fast enough. Lucky for me, I succeeded to give it away (to a work collegue) for a couple of broken....buttons