Panerai 210- a review

[rootbeer7]

A few facts first.
My first interest in Panerai was a few years ago and it was the Radiomir models that interested me. Sadly, the 47mm felt like dinner plates and the 42 & 45 mm just felt underwhelming. But, the 44mm Luminor surprised me and the choice was made. I bought and sold a 390 & 233 which I had for a couple of years and after a few months realised I needed a Panerai in my collection.
First came an early Luminor 112 and earlier this year a Tritium 024 Submersible.
With those 2, I had a yearning again to try a Radiomir. Luckily enough after a false start a beautiful full set 210 found me! Exhibition back & sandwich dial.

So, let’s discuss the underwhelming feeling I first had. Yes, it is much lighter & slimmer and wears smaller than my other 2, particularly the 024. But, it’s all relative. I like larger watches and it’s ability to sit under a cuff when I wear the occasional smart shirt is perfect.
The cushion case and short wire lugs are pure vintage and the watch sits perfectly on my wrist. The sandwich dial is simplicity personified and as a large dress watch 2 hands are all you need. Strap changes are more difficult than the Luminor models, but it’s part of the Panerai dna.
The manual wind movement is a pleasure to wind as it’s buttery smooth with the lovely onion crown and the 56 hour power reserve is perfect for weekend wear. Timekeeping is very good too.

All in all, it’s never going to be my daily, but it’s a worthy part of my collection.