Panerai chronometer reputation?

[Transliterator]

Hi there,

I quite like the idea of getting a certified chronometer (COSC) and I am not sure the Rolex variates suit quite the look (or the price/waiting time) I am after. I have been looking over at Panerai, specifically the PAM 236. How does this movement rate next to Rolex and Omega etc? Also does anyone have a Panerai chronometer and what do they think?

[B. Doggy]

Panerai will provide COSC specs as other firms like Rolex do. However, consider a PAM for what it is, keeping careful note of its heritage and DNA. The 236 is a gorgeous piece and you should get what sings to you, but it lacks a few things IMHO. Panerai is generally valued and loved for its bold simplicity, freakish love for after-market leather straps, as well as the fact that there's nothing like it out there available.

The above said, Panerai makes quite a few watches with a modified ETA movement. It's reliable and not out of the ordinary for the brand. It should be considered that they are also moving toward an all in-house movement. Try a few on and see what you thing.

Oh, welcome to TRF and we all wish you the best of luck! Keep us posted and post some pics!!!

[Transliterator]

Ah so the current movement is not in house but might be in the coming years? When you say lacking something, do you actually mean it is a bit too busy for the brand? I agree it does seem a bit busy, hmm I do quite like their marine style watches as well.

What types do people tend to gravitate towards? On the rolex side it seems to be mostly submariner, but again a plain diving watch look does not appeal to me either for some reason. Currently have a 1967 oyster perpetual date, nice and simple.. so looking for something a bit more "involved" next.

[brainbizz]

I personally love the 236 and wear it much more than all my other watches combined. It just works well with the old bracelet and has been discontinued. In regards to the chrono function it is ETA which is OK. I would recommend checking it b/c some had an issue with the second hand fluttering. From a movement perspective there are many better but there is something about it.

[brainbizz]

In regards to styling the 236 although not traditional works well. Its is a classy unique watch. I can choose from so many different ones to wear but usually wear it. I just like it.

[Transliterator]

So basically, there are many better movements out there than the ETA in the Panerai chronographs. That is somewhat of a shame, because it is almost more of a psychological reassurance about movement quality that attracts me to the chronographs, not their over eager complexity ;).

Are there Panerais with a particularly robust movement? I have heard it said that some Omega movements are more accurate than Rolex, how would Panerai rate compared.

Ah yes, was also wondering if anyone here uses a steel bracelet for their Panerai, it seems straps are much more popular probably due to the easy modularity. Steel does attract me as all my other watches have leather at the moment though.

[Transliterator]

Alright think I am starting to understand now, their in house movements are only used on the watches that are specified in the catalogue section after you look at the movements, I just assumed most of the pieces used those mechanisms. None of these movements seem to be COSC yet.

[Trurolexer]

WELCOME To TRF's PANERAI FORUM!!!

[Zed]

Welcome to the Forum...

if i want chrono i would not opt for a PANERAI.... not because rtheir chronos are nogood, they are excellent but because what makes PANERAI attractive to me and to many Paneristis is the shear simplicity... 236 is a great watch but if you want to start with a PAM, try something basic and popular which holds the essence of panerai and you would not have a problem in flipping if you ever wanted to.. see the PAM111, PAM000 and PAM105..

if you are inrested i have a friend wanting to sell Panerai Ratrapante PAM213, chrono with split second. I'll ask him if you are intrested.

[brainbizz]

I always buy what I like and do not worry to much about resale. Panerai chronos are typically expensive and cluttered which is a turn off to some. The 236 for me is perfect it has date and old style bracelet. I have never used the chrono function. I own several chronos incl 2 ss Daytonas and Ferrari 24 minerva. They typically stay in the box. The 236 IMHO is one of the best looking PAMs traditional or not. I am also not a big strap fan but its easy to go from bracelet to strap.

[Transliterator]

Thanks for the warm greeting everyone. After looking around a bit further, both the look and movement of the PAM 328 seem quite appealing. Of course I need to get out there and try some on before knowing much more, just glanced at them in the window prior to now.

[brainbizz]

A few pics of chronos and others