Officine Panerai

I received my new 292 black ceramic Radiomir today and promptly ordered a new strap for it. However, reading the instruction manual tonight, I discovered that the instruction manual provides instructions for changing the strap, but then specifically says that the strap on the ceramic Radiomir must be changed only by an authorized dealer. Why is the ceramic Radiomir any different from the steel/gold ones, and is there any reason I should not change the strap myself?

getting the strap change on mine at the boutique for fear of having any scratch on the ceramic case which would not be easily repairable/polishable.   Moreover, the screws are just PVD'ed so quite prone to scratch.  As such I would want someon at the boutique that does the strap change day in and day out to do the honour although I'm getting quite handy at it myself! 

Which strap are you thinking about?  

 

 

...but the PVD on the screws has definitely worn off somewhat and the 292 is the only rad that I know of with finicky plastic bits on the ends of the lugs that go into the watch... These add a tiny bit more complexity and stress to the deal... All that said I prefer to be able to change the strap when the mood strikes even with these annoyances... Enjoy the watch!

You can do it, that being said if you live by a Boutique (I live by BHB), then sure might as well take it to the Boutique. I had them put my GSD CH2 on.

I'd like to welcome you to this forum... This is the right place for you to share and learn about watches, in this case panerai. And congrats on your new 292.

Okay, regarding the strap changing on the 292. I normally do it myself. It is the same with other radiomirs. Although you have to do it extra careful. Yes, as mentioned above, if you scratch the ceramic case badly there's nothing else can be done, only can he replaced with a new case. And that's gonna cost you a lot. And the pvd screws can get scratched easily too..

It happened to my 292, the screwdriver slipped when I was unscrewing. There's a small scratch left near the screw hole. Luckily it's very minor.

So if you are not comfortable doing it, go to a near Boutique/AD/watch store. I'm pretty sure they will be able to help you changing the strap. But if you want to change it yourself, I would recomend you to get a nice screwdriver, as it will have better grip and it works smoother. And also cover nearby area with scotch tape. To prevent damage, in case your screw driver slipped.

I hope that my reply is useful. Don't forget to share your beauty to us!

Cheers!

Sam

Great forum, thanks everyone. I ordered a GSD TMoro with old gold stitching which Greg suggested looks particularly good on the 292. I do not live near a boutique, although there is an AD I pass by once or twice a month. But I'd really like to be able to change straps when I feel like it, as I do with my PAM90. I would think the PVD screws could be easily purchased from Panerai, but I see the concern about the case. So, I think that I'm willing to take the risk, but also willing to be extra careful. Any suggestions on where to buy a good quality screwdriver and what the proper size is?

With a few exceptions, but in all case, having it changed by a professional is always better!

Cheers

Stephen

where's the hidden camera?

Asi

provided you have to leave it with me for a Couple of Weeks to makes sure it's Safe to wear.!!!  ;0)))))

 congratulations on this Fine 292. it's a Beauty.

 almost everyone i know Change Straps themselves.. all you need is one of those (very inexpensice):

 

 

enjoy your Watch..

 Tony

You should really try to do it yourself.  It literally only takes 2 or 3 minutes to do a strap change including the buckle.

Why spend an hour, 2, or 3 to drive to your local Panerai Boutique, wait for Panerai staff to do your strap change, and then drive back home?  Not worth the time and trouble IMO

Cheers,
Anthony

 

 

This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2010-12-03 14:52:53

It's really easy once you get the hang of it. At first, I was also scared of changing the straps on my Rad. Only takes a few minutes with the proper technique.

You should really try to do it yourself.  It literally only takes 2 or 3 minutes to do a strap change including the buckle.

Why spend an hour, 2, or 3 to drive to your local Panerai Boutique, wait for Panerai staff to do your strap change, and then drive back home?  Not worth the time and trouble IMO

Cheers,
Anthony

 

And one could end up buying another watch...

But not for the accountant!  LOL

Cheers,
Anthony