The Panerai Source Forums

Hello all. I am a newbie to the Panerai forum but a regular on the Breitling forums. I have had my eye on the Panerai brand for some time now and am just overwhelmed by the many models that they offer. I really want to get one in the next week or so but wanted to ask you all what do you look for or did you look for when purchasing your first or only one? Other than the visual presence that will just jump out at you when you know that's the watch that you like and want, what other things do you consider? Price isn't my focal point however I'm not trying to go broke with this new found interest. Any feedback, personal experiences, thoughts, etc are greatly welcomed. I just don't know where to start as I'm trying to research and familiarize myself with this brand. It appears as though I woke up and Panerai was all the fuss, so naturally, seeing some pics, trying a few on and noticing the size, great craftsmanship and different look of these watches, I was instantly turned to the Panerai side. So, I ask you all, please help me to help me make my first Panerai purchase a great one! Thanks in advance!

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Paneraifanatic32

i was also in your shoes and here are a few things to consider...

1. radiomir or luminor. the crownguard on the luminor is very unique to panerai, but i loved the radiomir case.

2. "base" or second hand. do you want simple look of the hour/minute hand, or do you really need the small second hand in your life? i eventually went base as i love the clean look/design.

those are the 2 big ones...then it's sandwich or painted/sausage dials, display or solid caseback...now there are more choices with in-house movements, auto...se's. your first pam i'd suggest keep it simple with a historic model as the prices are still "low". if you decide you really like the look move up

for rad....183/210/287
luminor...000/005/111/112

Additionally, you'll also need to decide if you want to spend the extra bucks for a manufacture movement. And then there is the 1950's style case if you decide to go with a Luminor Crown guard model... there are a few factors.

If you are struggling you definately need to go to a dealer and try some on, its really tough to decide, and its a very personal choice. The watches are all very subtly different from each other but make a big difference when you are wearing them.

Thanks for the suggestions and the information. I'll let you know what I end up purchasing and post the pics as well. Thanks again!

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Paneraifanatic32

Pam348 is where i would start.

I bet, lol. If I started there I'd most likely have to finish there as well, lol. That's a fine specimen of a watch, but good gracious!

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Paneraifanatic32

I would go with a 005 or a 111, i still have my 111 reason being its sooo much of an everyday watch, I'm not fussed if i scratch it quick polish and off i go. Keep the others for weekends.

I think you will do the right thing if you get a 005 or a 111 as first Panerai. 177 could be interesting too, if you want a bushed finish. If you are willing to pay the extra money for an in-house-mouvement, the 312 or 320 are good choices too...

My first one was a 111 and I wore it for a solid four straight years and never regretted it being my first choice.

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PAM 312
PAM 359

The 111 is like the perfect starter PAM.

I am to looking for first Paneri< would the 312 be a nice choice? I also like the 233 but the price is steep.

PAM312 is awesome.. I have been thinking about this one for my next as well. I guess it depends a lot of budget and what features you are looking for.