Officine Panerai

I think Panerai is successful in pinpointing what exactly that the public likes about their watches...maybe it's the simple design, or the curves of the case or  the shapes they use.  Whatever it is, they've managed to hone in on it and keep it consistent so that their core customore base stays loyal.  However, they also realize that the brand needs to be dynamic to survive in the marketplace by gaining new customers and peaking interest in existing ones.  To do this, they make small changes, enough that there is a difference but not so much that it completely changes the look of the watch and thus they gain  repeat customers.   It's simply more of a good thing and who doesn't want that. 

Love the watch since I got it...a lot of fun in the 305 and I highly recommend it

As a long time Paneristi, I have to say I wasn't quite overwhelmed when I saw the 305 in the metal.  It's a nice watch, don't get me wrong, but I'm not sure of the bang for the buck value.  And as for the bezel, i found the Blancpain 50 Fathoms to be much better, uni-directional bezel.  Much better action and 2 clicks to the second for precision.

But none of that takes away from your great review.  Anthony, are you channeling Walt Odets?

Best,
Larry

However, it does help 1000x more for me when I'm reviewing a watch that I absolutely like and a brand that I am passionate about.  Definitely helps with me being able to add more of my personal thoughts and commentary on the subject which I feel makes reviews much more interesting.

Thanks for the very kind comments!

Cheers,
Anthony

I saw the 305 at the NYC boutique when I was in town at the end of October and fell in love with it. But then I strolled over to the MB boutique and got to see the Rieussec chrono. Couldn't purchase both, so since I already have a 268 in the collection, I made off with the Rieussec.

Best,
Mitch

and I'm glad I had the opportunity to review that watch last year.  You made a great choice and I would have done the same since I always prefer diversity of watches whenever I can.

Cheers,
Anthony

From the moment I first strapped on a 305 I have dreamed of owning one.  It does seem to have the special sauce that makes it a Panerai to own.  I'm not likely to commit to one any time soon, so I hope you get one so I can at least see it every once in a while!

Best,

Jed

Great job Anthony!!!

I am sure it took a large amount of effort and time to put this piece together. It shows that you did alot of hard work!!
It is definitely worth the read. Very well executed and presented. Thanks for taking us through the review section by section.

Thanks again,
Jonathan

There are very kind words for a long time die-hard Paneristi.  It was a lot of work to write the review but fun at the same time.  Hope to see you at a future GTG!

Cheers,
Anthony

. . . or at the very least, I'll start learning Panerai reference numbers ;-). Regarding the placement of the date aperture and small seconds dial on the horizontal axis, my sense is that a symmetrical layout would shift the perception of the watch towards "squareness" (sorry if this isn't an accurate term, but it's the best I can come up with). The relative aesthetic tension between the Luminor and Radiomir case designs is reflected in their differing balances of 'round' to 'square' design artifacts, with the Luminor tending towards round, and the Radiomir towards square. It's the blend and balancing of geometric forms that distinguishes Panerai's unique aesthetic, imho. The asymmetrical placements on the horizontal axis tip the balance away from 'squareness', which is, I think, more consistent with the Luminor's general theme. Cordially, Art

with us Anthony.

Very informational.

Alepos

You got be hooked on the Glashutte Original Senator Sixties Square, and it's payback time to get you hooked on a Panerai someday.  Maybe a Radiomir model someday

Cheers,
Anthony

Martin

and beautiful watch...

I'm actually tempted...

Now that is what I call a reveiw.

This having been said, I still went out an ordered a Rolex Deepsea which has my preference. In the meantime I'm still waiting for my PAM 317 to arrive.

Regards,

George

A great report! I didn't think of the 305 til your report.

It was a pleasure to write, and I tried to include as much information, some history, and opinion so even those who aren't familiar with Panerai watches can understand every little aspect of Panerai and the PAM305.

When I had Ping (my wife) read my final draft of my review, she didn't understand some of the sections and I'm glad I got her thoughts on my draft because the added sections and explanations helped with completing the overall read of the review.

Happy Holidays to everyone!

Cheers,
Anthony

The only think I would love to see in Panerai's submersible is 'tritium' markers.

Cheers.

thanks for the tip on moving the keeper!

Great post,  this is the perfect guide for my decision to go for PAM305!

Please do post some pictures when you get it!

Cheers,
Anthony