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Panerai Regatta Models
Article Discussing the Regatta Models
Panerai Regatta Models by Ian Grandjean
The Regatta Special Editions started in 2001 with the 107. This model used the OP lll movement (automatic) and was engraved with the mention "Laureus Awards". It was produced in 500 examples and like the 156 of the following year, had a simple black face. In 2003 Panerai downsized again and that years model was only produced in 399 examples and was, unusually, the 40mm 168 on a metal bracelet. The model chosen for 2004 was the 199 and this was the only Regatta model to use the textured weave effect on the dial. The 199 went back to the OP lll automatic movement for the first time since 2001.
The following year saw the introduction of the 222 Power Reserve using the OP lX movement, and the first year to use the 'Clou de Paris' or Paris Hobnail texture on the dial, which now distinguishes the Regatta models. This year was also the first time the mention "Classic Yachts Challenge" appeared engraved on the caseback. 2006 was the turn of the 253. This is essentially a 212 Flyback with a blue 'flyback' chrono hand, and this 'blue' feature has been used to distinguish all the subsequent Regatta models. The woven dial feature was used again, and the movement was the OPXlX.
Next up was the 286, the most complicated, and expensive, of all the Regatta SE. This model uses the OP XVll Rattrapante movement, and as usual, sports the woven textured face. For 2008 we will shortly see the 308 using the much simpler OP XXVl Flyback movement, the woven texture dial and as with all the Regatta since 2006, NO DATE!!! This model is noteworthy as it goes back to the 1950's style buttons to activate the chrono functions (Unlike the 250/251/236 series)
It's interesting to see the subtle change of direction with regard to the choice of the movements for the Regatta models - since 2006 and the choice of the OP XlX the movements have all been manual wind, instead of the automatics used up until 2005, and this has the added inconvenience, IMHO, of not having a date.
2001 107 OP lll 500 ex Date
2002 156 OP Vlll 300 ex Date
2003 168 OP Xll 399 ex Date
2004 199 OP lll 500 ex Date
2005 222 OP lX 500 ex Date
2006 253 OP XlX 500 ex No Date
2007 286 OP XVll 500 ex No Date
2008 308 OP XXVl 500 ex No Date
As with all the Panerai Special Editions, the watches are supplied in a huge pear-wood box, with a scroll showing the unique number of the watch in the production run, paperwork, screwdriver and additional strap. For the most part the strap buckles are simple BA (Tang type) but on occaision the watches are supplied with BD (Deployant) buckles. Note that the rubber strap for the BA will not fit the deployant buckle.