Thoughts on the Panerai 112 / Pam Noob!
 

OK, I am just entertaining the idea of getting a PAM. I am a TOTAL Pam NOOB! Still in love with Rolex, but starting to stray - at least emotionally at first. Thinking of taking a high-end watch mistress if you will. I don't mind dallying with my SEIKO monster or my Speedy Pro for some reason. :rofl:

The large / simple dials are starting to appeal to me.

I have see a 112 - no date, no second hand etc. going for $3500 or so used. I think I want the seconds...but not crazy for how PAM implements the date complication. The date often looks like it has not centered itself in the date window...at least in photos I have seen.

Any advice on a first Pam? A SS Sub is often recommended to Rolex Noobs so I am wondering what Pam folks recommend.

I admit I am having a tough time following models. I *think* I like the 111 and 104...:thinking:

I know special editions are what drives Pam prices...but I just want a cool SS model I plan to wear with a black strap!

Cannot make sense of pre-owned prices. If I was looking at the $3000 - 4000 range, what would you all recommend???

Thanks for entertaining this Noob-like exploration question.

Have you looked at the 88? That would be my first PAM.

Edit: You did mention simple dials :dummy:

I think a 000, 005, 111 or 112 are the best options. Often the cheapest, true to PAM tradition with the workhorse 6497 movement. Automatic PAMs just don't sing to me. Part of the fun of owning a PAM is winding the movement :)

Thanks for the thoughts so far...

Ahh...Winders. That's fine with me. LOVE winding my Speedy Pro.

So Jason, the PAMs you ID'd look good.

I did like the 112 I saw - and the price...and the seller. Not ready to throw down yet...but this may be a better alternative that trying to swing a Daytona - if I can find one of course.

111=Submariner

233=Daytona

Also, check out the 312. It's a fantastic piece!

I break down my PAMs into two arenas...sandwich dials (newer 111, 112, etc) and sausage dials (000, 005). I prefer the look of a sandwich dial as I love the layers and how bright they lume.

My take:
111/005=16610
112/000=14060 (the "DNA" pieces)
312=GMT IIc

Got the 112 back in december 2008,was really happy with it in the begining,but the lack of a second began to bug me.it was almost as if the watch had no life in it.had originally wanted the pam 111,a great watch as 2 of my friend have it.very comfortable and there were no probems with it fitting under a shirt cuff,and as for the sandwich dial, a real joy to behold.the funny thing is that the day i bought it i came close to pulling the trigger on a breitling chronomat evoution.last september i flipped the pam for the evolution and have never regretted it.i woud suggest for a first pam to consider either the 111 or the luck with your decision

oops!! meant to say either the 111 or the 005!

Thanks!

More good thoughts. Yes Ronin...I am thinking about the second hand. I like the signs of life and I find myself hypnotized by the sweep of the Rolex second hand!!!

Glad you could make sense of my post,typing too fast dreadful,ashamed!the lack of a date never bothered me as i have had a speedmaster which i have worn for the past three years on and off so you get used to not having a date, but the lack of a seconds hand was very offputting,in the end.do love the look of the pam 104/164 the entery level autos!

Hi Bill, Well I like the second hand, automatic, power reserve, sandwich dial, exhibition back and power reserve. And, I'm on a limited budget so I had to make some sacrifices: dial and back had to go in order to settle on a PAM 90. I like it and am pleased with the selection. Something to consider!

http://i956.photobucket.com/albums/a...s/IMG_0387.jpg

That's cool Eric...However, I think I am favoring the minimalist look of the 111 a wee bit more.

I'll go with that :thumbsup:



Cheers
:cheers:

Go for the 111!

^ love that pic - strap is a great match :smokin:





Cheers
:cheers:

What should I expect to pay for a pre-owned / excellent, near-mint 111???

Bill, i close my eyes bring my wrist nearer and i could hear life..ticking. :chuckle: dun have to look at second hand just hear it. :thumbsup: Bill, i preferred without the sub second dial base luv the simplicity layout...less busy without the sub dial imo. :cheers:

http://i288.photobucket.com/albums/l...h/R0014507.jpg

Bill--I would say 312 or 111...Both great lookers! Also-You will love Panerai coming from Rolex. I have a tough time taking my 275 off--it gets solid wrist time. Go for it!!:thumbsup:

x2 I agree. If you're looking for a classic look on the dial then both of those watches work. Just looking at my 312 as I type this and it still looks great to me. Glad to see that you're fixed on a 44mm case which is a great size. The main (aesthetic) difference between the two is the case style. The 111 has the contemporary style which is more squared while the 312 has the 1950 which is more retro (see comparison here if it helps http://www.paneraisource.com/articles_caseshape.shtml ). Good luck and look forward to the pictures!

You always stray emotionally first .....the seed is planted and then eventually you buy the first PAM !! :chuckle::thumbsup:

Larg simple dials ........hmmmm,well no better than Panerai !!:thumbsup:

111 and 104 are great calls.So are the 312,88,005 etc.

First PAM .....Hmmm,my recommendation would be a 111.:thumbsup: I simply love that one and it gets the most time on the wrist.:thumbsup::cheers:

>>> Thanks. Will see when the budget allows. :banghead:

>>> Thanks for the link. That is quite helpful! :thumbsup: Not so fast...I have some taxes coming due AND a vacation! Maybe I can do this by Summer. :thinking:

>>> Thanks. I am definitely leaning 111.

Again folks, what is the scoop on Pricing? I have a great feel for used Rolex SS Subs, but a rookie here in Panerai country???? :thinking:

O Oh.....Bill are you turning to the dark side??:chuckle::chuckle::justkiddi

Good to see your interest's are getting wider in the spectrum of watches.....
I hope you find what your looking for friend!!!:cheers::cheers:

Thanks Rob...

Just musings right now. Between a Vintage Sub, SS Daytona and now maybe a 111...I am not sure about anything except for the fact I don't have a bucket of cash stashed away anywhere at the moment!

Is $5,000 a good price for a Pam 111 - like new / all boxes straps etc. etc???

Bill,

I think you could do better. My AD sold me a 177 a few months back with a 15% discount. On a 111 that would be about $4800 (brand new). The issue with this brand is finding the stock at ADs. You're probably better off buying online/grey/pre-owned through reputable sellers.

My recommendation would be to get a 000 base logo or a 312 if you want to spend a little more coin. Lots of favorite TRF sellers getting their hands on 312s lately (that's how I acquired mine). Good luck! :cheers:

Thanks Jackson.

I saw the 111 on watchuwant.com. Heard it was a legit site, with high prices. I know our TRF sellers usually just post their listings here. Must keep their costs down. HAHA.

Not in a raging hurry. Still toying with the idea of a Daytona...but I am starting to like the Pams!

Will likely get the watch on TRF someday.

i like the 111
 

Is there a huge diference in price between 111/112 and 312?

if not, go for the pam312

http://i979.photobucket.com/albums/a.../IMAGE_623.jpg

The 312 is $1,800 more than the 111

($7,400 vs $5,600)






Cheers
:cheers: