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andrew79 · 6 May 2010, 05:20 PM

If price is the same, which is the one you prefer ? There's a lot of panerai, for me almost similar in design, my eyes haven't used to it.

Psmith · 6 May 2010, 05:50 PM

On looks alone, imho the 111 is the most 'iconic' looking of these three.

If price is not a factor, then the 312 is hard to get past...
inhouse movement, three days power reserve, date, etc, etc.

For me, the essence of Panerai is functional, stylish simplicity, so it is taking me a while to fully warm up to the autos.

If you get both the 111 and the 312 then you will have a very nice Luminor collection...

Cheers

andrew79 · 6 May 2010, 06:06 PM

hm what's wrong with 104 ? just wondering because I m lacking knowledge on PAM.

Psmith · 6 May 2010, 06:17 PM

The 104 is a nice watch (I have owned one), but for me at least does not compare with the 111 or 312. However, many people love it - it's an auto (not inhouse), has a date with cyclops, and a painted dial not sandwich like the other two. Same shape case as the 111 and other 'Historic' Luminors, and a solid caseback (111 has exhibition caseback).

Note that the 312 has a '1950' case which is a different shape and wears differently. Also has the quick strap change system (push buttons instead of screws) as does the 104. 111 uses screws, although it's still very easy to change straps.

Best thing, of course, is to handle all three models at the same time but it is not always easy to find an AD with all of the models in stock that you are interested in (certainly not in Australia!)

Cheers

andrew79 · 6 May 2010, 06:44 PM

got it... yeah for me all of them still look almost the same.... :)

Psmith · 6 May 2010, 07:44 PM

Yes, sometimes the differences between models can be small and subtle so can take a while to 'get your eye in'.

Btw, I was not trying to be rude about the 104 - it was in fact my first PAM, followed by a couple of Radiomirs and then a 111. I no longer have any of these (I am a terrible flipper but that is another story!)

Currently I am trying to decide whether to get another 111, or a 312 or 320 (GMT version of 312), or...

Cheers

andrew79 · 6 May 2010, 08:47 PM

LOL thanks a lot Clive ! seems like all PAM should be fun ....

rolexcd · 6 May 2010, 09:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Psmith

On looks alone, imho the 111 is the most 'iconic' looking of these three.

If price is not a factor, then the 312 is hard to get past...
inhouse movement, three days power reserve, date, etc, etc.

For me, the essence of Panerai is functional, stylish simplicity, so it is taking me a while to fully warm up to the autos.

If you get both the 111 and the 312 then you will have a very nice Luminor collection...

Cheers

Agree 100%

Trurolexer · 6 May 2010, 09:53 PM

111 in the first place, and 312 in the second.
Both WINNER!!!

dalip · 6 May 2010, 09:59 PM

312. No doubt...best looking...gorgeous case...fantastic power reserve...as soon as ADs get them they don't last long!

Brunotheboxer · 6 May 2010, 10:55 PM

When you factor in cost 111 is very tough to beat.

Psmith · 6 May 2010, 11:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brunotheboxer

When you factor in cost 111 is very tough to beat.

Fair point Bruno - there's a $2k price difference between the 111 and 312.

Cheers

jvo300 · 6 May 2010, 11:26 PM

I think the 312 represents the best bang for the buck. Ultimately, you need to see them in the flesh and try them on. The differences are very apparent in person.

mike · 6 May 2010, 11:45 PM

If price isn't a factor I'd be hard pressed to pass a 312. If it is the 111 would be my choice.

No loser here.

Borg · 6 May 2010, 11:46 PM

A consideration not mentioned is that the Pam 312 in 50's Luminor case is a very different shape ( domed back ) and lies much higher on the wrist than the Pam 104...for some people the 50's case on 312 may be a bit cumbersome or uncomfortable, on other forums I've seen posts about the 312 becoming more easily scratched because of this.
All that being said if you look at the 312 and 104 side by side in person...there is no doubt that the 312 is a much better looking watch, it is gorgeous !!! exquisite lines, brushed case, polished bezel, no ugly cyclops over date, the "9"... one of the best looking Panerai you will see, it gives an appearance equal to much more expensive Panerai models... the 104 looks great too, but no comparision.

Also, yes the Pam 111 has an iconic Panerai look for those who prioritize that...but one HUGE difference is that the 111 is a hand wound watch not an automatic, for me personally I have no problem with this ...but its definitely not for everybody and you will be reminded of this every 50 hours or so... I don't see how it can be held in comparison to the other two that are automatics, different worlds.

One more point... Panerai has really evolved in the last couple decades and the "iconic look" is not the first and last word in my humble opinion. Some of the other styles such as the Pam 88 GMT and Pam 24 Submersible have become icons in their own right and should not be quickly overlooked.

The 111,104, 312, 88, 24...are all basically in the same range $5000-$7000 ...if your gonna spend that much for a watch to begin with... the price difference should not be the deciding factor. You should get the one that speaks to you !

You really can't go wrong with any Panerai...the problem is that they have so many great models with individualized styles...its hard to choose just one !
Don't even let me get started on the Radiomirs.

Nica64 · 7 May 2010, 09:59 AM

312

or 111

andrew79 · 7 May 2010, 10:08 AM

Thanks all for the answer.... it seems it all down to 312 and 111..... i love the look of 104 though, but i know now that pam lovers won't choose it for different reasons.

dalip · 7 May 2010, 10:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrew79

Thanks all for the answer.... it seems it all down to 312 and 111..... i love the look of 104 though, but i know now that pam lovers won't choose it for different reasons.

Hey Andrew...I have the 104.....and I love it.. If it's calling you then that's the way to go..I said 312 because I like the case....but having said that I have never tried one on so haven't had a chance to properly compare.. Always want what we don't have! Are you able to try them on?

andrew79 · 7 May 2010, 11:06 AM

Hi, mate. i haven't got a chance to try any of them on my wrist yet.... but based on look alone, it's good enough for me .... TR mentioned to me it's up to me, but he prefers manual winding panerai compared to automatic.... well, i know it's not going to be easy decision here :)

ghormley · 7 May 2010, 11:23 AM

312, 104

marcinthemiddle · 7 May 2010, 11:38 AM

Whoa- The 104 seems like the least loved of the three...
...and I'm really happy with mine! I DO tend to root for the underdog...

Eric89 · 7 May 2010, 11:55 AM

I just went through a similar decision and ended up going with the 111 because I just couldnt justify the price for the 312 at the moment. After wearing rolexes (36mm) it felt huge at first but once on my wrist it is beautiful. I thought the manual wind would be a pain and take a while to get used to going from an automatic but I just wind it when I take it off before I go to bed and its been good to go all week. I LOVE being able to see the movement, its especially cool when winding. Overall Im very happy with my 111 and Id say go for the 111, unless money is out of the question, in which case go for the 312.

andrew79 · 7 May 2010, 12:48 PM

OK all.... got the big picture over it....

ocwatching · 7 May 2010, 01:12 PM

I am biased...312 for the most Panerai Bang for the buck...

but you really have to look at them in the metal...

the historic Lums and Rads are really calling me

TswaneNguni · 7 May 2010, 01:36 PM

ANY one of the three.....all great choices for different reasons.

dalip · 7 May 2010, 01:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrew79

OK all.... got the big picture over it....

you can never be over opinions surely

andrew79 · 7 May 2010, 02:02 PM

LOL... true, got the picture but still confused... LOL

PAM Boeremeisie · 7 May 2010, 03:00 PM

Being totally new to the incredible world of Panerai (Day 7 content owner of a 048 beaut!!

), the deciding factor for me was to try on the "short list" of choices and suggestions from a good friend with an "expert and experienced eye"!
Between two AD's and their staff, a friend and myself - the choice was very obvious - AND not the choice we all thought would be the more sensible buy...

enjoy the hunt!!...and hey, on the upside: whatever the choice - you are going to get a time master piece!!!

dalip · 7 May 2010, 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrew79

LOL... true, got the picture but still confused... LOL

Yup...that's what happens....sit tight..keep mulling it over...and then it'll come to you.....at least that's what happens for me

Speed · 7 May 2010, 04:12 PM

Umm.... 111 / Sandwich Dial

6 May 2010, 05:20 PM	#1
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	104 or 111 or 312 is you guys think better looking ? If price is the same, which is the one you prefer ? There's a lot of panerai, for me almost similar in design, my eyes haven't used to it. __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

6 May 2010, 05:50 PM	#2
Psmith "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Clive Location: Exoplanet Watch: spring-driven Posts: 38,855	On looks alone, imho the 111 is the most 'iconic' looking of these three. If price is not a factor, then the 312 is hard to get past... inhouse movement, three days power reserve, date, etc, etc. For me, the essence of Panerai is functional, stylish simplicity, so it is taking me a while to fully warm up to the autos. If you get both the 111 and the 312 then you will have a very nice Luminor collection... Cheers __________________

6 May 2010, 06:06 PM	#3
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	hm what's wrong with 104 ? just wondering because I m lacking knowledge on PAM. __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

6 May 2010, 06:17 PM	#4
Psmith "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Clive Location: Exoplanet Watch: spring-driven Posts: 38,855	The 104 is a nice watch (I have owned one), but for me at least does not compare with the 111 or 312. However, many people love it - it's an auto (not inhouse), has a date with cyclops, and a painted dial not sandwich like the other two. Same shape case as the 111 and other 'Historic' Luminors, and a solid caseback (111 has exhibition caseback). Note that the 312 has a '1950' case which is a different shape and wears differently. Also has the quick strap change system (push buttons instead of screws) as does the 104. 111 uses screws, although it's still very easy to change straps. Best thing, of course, is to handle all three models at the same time but it is not always easy to find an AD with all of the models in stock that you are interested in (certainly not in Australia!) Cheers __________________

6 May 2010, 06:44 PM	#5
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	got it... yeah for me all of them still look almost the same.... :) __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

6 May 2010, 07:44 PM	#6
Psmith "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Clive Location: Exoplanet Watch: spring-driven Posts: 38,855	Yes, sometimes the differences between models can be small and subtle so can take a while to 'get your eye in'. Btw, I was not trying to be rude about the 104 - it was in fact my first PAM, followed by a couple of Radiomirs and then a 111. I no longer have any of these (I am a terrible flipper but that is another story!) Currently I am trying to decide whether to get another 111, or a 312 or 320 (GMT version of 312), or... Cheers __________________

6 May 2010, 08:47 PM	#7
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	LOL thanks a lot Clive ! seems like all PAM should be fun .... __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

6 May 2010, 09:53 PM	#9
Trurolexer Banned Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: USA Watch: 5513MaxiI+PreComex Posts: 18,421	111 in the first place, and 312 in the second. Both WINNER!!!

6 May 2010, 09:59 PM	#10
dalip "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Real Name: Dalip Location: Mumbai and Perth Watch: Rolex PAM Omega Posts: 18,656	312. No doubt...best looking...gorgeous case...fantastic power reserve...as soon as ADs get them they don't last long! __________________ ------------------------------------------------------------ *"The liar's punishment is not in the least that he is not believed, but that he cannot believe anyone else." George Bernard Shaw*

6 May 2010, 10:55 PM	#11
Brunotheboxer Banned Join Date: Mar 2008 Real Name: Bruno Location: Boston/Cape Cod Watch: 16610,PAM. 111, G Posts: 7,608	When you factor in cost 111 is very tough to beat.

6 May 2010, 11:26 PM	#13
jvo300 "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: TX Posts: 1,897	I think the 312 represents the best bang for the buck. Ultimately, you need to see them in the flesh and try them on. The differences are very apparent in person.

6 May 2010, 11:45 PM	#14
mike "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 22,682	If price isn't a factor I'd be hard pressed to pass a 312. If it is the 111 would be my choice. No loser here.

6 May 2010, 11:46 PM	#15
Borg Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: new jersey Posts: 27	A consideration not mentioned is that the Pam 312 in 50's Luminor case is a very different shape ( domed back ) and lies much higher on the wrist than the Pam 104...for some people the 50's case on 312 may be a bit cumbersome or uncomfortable, on other forums I've seen posts about the 312 becoming more easily scratched because of this. All that being said if you look at the 312 and 104 side by side in person...there is no doubt that the 312 is a much better looking watch, it is gorgeous !!! exquisite lines, brushed case, polished bezel, no ugly cyclops over date, the "9"... one of the best looking Panerai you will see, it gives an appearance equal to much more expensive Panerai models... the 104 looks great too, but no comparision. Also, yes the Pam 111 has an iconic Panerai look for those who prioritize that...but one HUGE difference is that the 111 is a hand wound watch not an automatic, for me personally I have no problem with this ...but its definitely not for everybody and you will be reminded of this every 50 hours or so... I don't see how it can be held in comparison to the other two that are automatics, different worlds. One more point... Panerai has really evolved in the last couple decades and the "iconic look" is not the first and last word in my humble opinion. Some of the other styles such as the Pam 88 GMT and Pam 24 Submersible have become icons in their own right and should not be quickly overlooked. The 111,104, 312, 88, 24...are all basically in the same range $5000-$7000 ...if your gonna spend that much for a watch to begin with... the price difference should not be the deciding factor. You should get the one that speaks to you ! You really can't go wrong with any Panerai...the problem is that they have so many great models with individualized styles...its hard to choose just one ! Don't even let me get started on the Radiomirs.

7 May 2010, 09:59 AM	#16
Nica64 "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: USA Posts: 2,596	312 or 111 __________________ ______________________________ You can't turn back the clock. But you can wind it up again.

7 May 2010, 10:08 AM	#17
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	Thanks all for the answer.... it seems it all down to 312 and 111..... i love the look of 104 though, but i know now that pam lovers won't choose it for different reasons. __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

7 May 2010, 11:06 AM	#19
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	Hi, mate. i haven't got a chance to try any of them on my wrist yet.... but based on look alone, it's good enough for me .... TR mentioned to me it's up to me, but he prefers manual winding panerai compared to automatic.... well, i know it's not going to be easy decision here :) __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

7 May 2010, 11:23 AM	#20
ghormley "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: TEXAS Watch: AP/Rolex Posts: 222	312, 104

7 May 2010, 11:38 AM	#21
marcinthemiddle Vacated Join Date: Nov 2009 Real Name: Marc Location: Connecticut Watch: PAM 111 'N' Posts: 2,558	Whoa- The 104 seems like the least loved of the three... ...and I'm really happy with mine! I DO tend to root for the underdog... __________________ NAWCC Member Card Carrying Member of the Global Assoc. of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons Executive Dorklehead

7 May 2010, 11:55 AM	#22
Eric89 "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Real Name: Eric Location: Philadelphia, PA Posts: 165	I just went through a similar decision and ended up going with the 111 because I just couldnt justify the price for the 312 at the moment. After wearing rolexes (36mm) it felt huge at first but once on my wrist it is beautiful. I thought the manual wind would be a pain and take a while to get used to going from an automatic but I just wind it when I take it off before I go to bed and its been good to go all week. I LOVE being able to see the movement, its especially cool when winding. Overall Im very happy with my 111 and Id say go for the 111, unless money is out of the question, in which case go for the 312.

7 May 2010, 12:48 PM	#23
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	OK all.... got the big picture over it.... __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

7 May 2010, 01:12 PM	#24
ocwatching "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Phil Location: CA Posts: 5,374	I am biased...312 for the most Panerai Bang for the buck... but you really have to look at them in the metal... the historic Lums and Rads are really calling me __________________ too much into watches...

7 May 2010, 01:36 PM	#25
TswaneNguni "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Real Name: Chris Location: . Watch: Daytonas/Subs/GMTs Posts: 12,609	ANY one of the three.....all great choices for different reasons.

7 May 2010, 02:02 PM	#27
andrew79 "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Andrew Location: Indonesia Watch: Rolex Posts: 2,277	LOL... true, got the picture but still confused... LOL __________________ Baume & Mercier Riviera Rolex GMT II c, DJ 116234, Sub 16610, EXP 2 16570 Panerai 111 , 232

7 May 2010, 03:00 PM	#28
PAM Boeremeisie Member Join Date: May 2010 Real Name: Marijke Location: South Africa Posts: 19	Being totally new to the incredible world of Panerai (Day 7 content owner of a 048 beaut!! ), the deciding factor for me was to try on the "short list" of choices and suggestions from a good friend with an "expert and experienced eye"! Between two AD's and their staff, a friend and myself - the choice was very obvious - AND not the choice we all thought would be the more sensible buy... enjoy the hunt!!...and hey, on the upside: whatever the choice - you are going to get a time master piece!!!

7 May 2010, 04:12 PM	#30
Speed "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: USA Posts: 19,749	Umm.... 111 / Sandwich Dial

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