Looking for something truly special, is this it?

[tedo]

I have owned several modern Panerai over years.

Now looking for something truly special — a classic domed piece, of true significance from the brand. Not looking for a vintage piece with Rolex ties/parts (as far to pricey), or necessarily one of the many modern limited editions (e.g. 911), which are admittedly nice but just not what I am thinking.

I am also taking in to consideration that modern Panerai has taken some heat lately, so want to be a little careful.

Is it the 127 Fiddy — is this still “the one” even though not as “advanced” in terms of the movement — an ETA with a modest power reserve — so therefor overpriced, or worth every penny even in this over inflated watch market?

[Kilometerman]

I don’t know if this is what you’re looking for, but imho and for my collection, the 690 sums up the brand really well.

[Cru Jones]

Domed with "significance" for the brand? I would say, in order, 127 then 233.

[Megalobyte]

A 217, essentially a destro 127, might also work because of it’s Marina Militare markings. Also a bit more comfortable to wear with the crown guard not poking your wrist/hand.

But for much less money a 372 or 422 will work well.

[6XYBE63ST]

Luminor Marina
PAM01115

[michaelodonnell123]

127

[crazycarlitos]

Now that’s an awesome pic

Originally Posted by michaelodonnell123

127

[Joearch]

360, 390, 372, 233, 127, 232 all worthy of consideration.

[Travelller]

Originally Posted by tedo

...a classic domed piece, of true significance from the brand. ... Is it the 127 Fiddy — is this still “the one” even though not as “advanced” in terms of the movement — an ETA with a modest power reserve — so therefor overpriced, or worth every penny even in this over inflated watch market?

You PMed me but my PM is full & anyway, I prefer to share my thoughts (& time) with the entire community

All of the above suggestions from fellow members are great examples. I once went nuts and managed to list all domed PAMs 'till about 2018 or so and if I can find it, I'll be glad to share.

I went with the (domed) 233 first (I think you read my thread so no need to restate my reasons) but still wanted something a little more tied to OP's history and ended up getting the 217. Here's a thread on my 217, not so much a write-up as a collection of pics, but as they say, 1 pic = 1000 words

The main reason for me going with the 217 is the 1950 case, domed crystal, 3-6-9-12 + secs sub-dial, gold hands (yummy!) and last but certainly not least, the MM logo.

At the time I got it, Bonati had "suggested" there would be no new MMs going forwards. We got the impression it was perhaps a change of heart from the actual Italian Navy and copyright decisions. But, alas, much like the famous "No more Bronzos"*, I was at the P-Day Venezia when I saw the next MM (587) released... Regardless, the optics of the domed 1950 PAMs are unique and the 2nd-gen 1950s (PAM 372, 587, ...) are also awesome but different.
*...or was it "no, more Bronzos!"



Having a Destro when you're always wearing your watches on the left wrist is subjective; if I could choose I'd just assume have it on the right just like the 127 but it's not that uncommon to want to avoid having a larger crown / crown guard digging into one's wrist and my Mühle SAR is also a "destro" configuration.

Last but not least, the venerable 6497/8. It's true that we're talking about a modestly priced movement but man, this thing is built like a tank and keeps time like a champ. So once you get over the watch-to-movement price ratio, you'll be quite ok with it. Besides, when they're nicely decorated, they also make for excellent eye candy


mvmt of my PAM 111G

Best of luck with your hunt - there are many nice PAMs that can easily fall under the category of "the one" , but it should a short(er) list when it's the one ... for you

[Travelller]

Originally Posted by Travelller

...I once went nuts and managed to list all domed PAMs 'till about 2018 or so and if I can find it, I'll be glad to share...

Found it

[tedo]

Great insight Travelller! So you chose the 217 over the 127 for the crown guard being more comfortable on opposite side (left hand) and the MM designation?

Also have my eye on a 995 if you have any thoughts?

[Travelller]

Originally Posted by tedo

Great insight Travelller! So you chose the 217 over the 127 for the crown guard being more comfortable on opposite side (left hand) and the MM designation?

Also have my eye on a 995 if you have any thoughts?

that's not what I wrote - I'd prefer to have the CG on the right.

The 995 is a nice option for sure, if you love green. I don't know how well the p.4000 performs but given a choice, I'm partial to hand-wound movements.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by Kilometerman

I don’t know if this is what you’re looking for, but imho and for my collection, the 690 sums up the brand really well.

I cant argue with any of the suggestions above or compete with the knowledge of the Paneristi .... but I can say, when I was looking to get into the brand, I fell in love with this one.

To this day I have zero regrets and it makes me smile every time I strap it on.



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