Thinking about adding a Panerai

[nicky77]

For the longest time I have wanted to have a Panerai added to my collection.
I am almost ready to do that, so I have been looking into the models more and more.

What I know is that I was a Radiomir.

The ones that I have always liked is the 268 (8 days power, reserve, small seconds)

I also like the 0098 (GMT Alarm)

I do like the 424 (California dial) but it is a bit too big for me. I wish it was 45mm.

Overall I prefer the 268 as I do not have a use for either the GMT or Alarm.

I was also looking at the 388 (Black seal Date)
or even the 183 (Black seal small seconds) as this is a date only watch, I am not sure that there is much advantage to going to the 609 for the 8 day movement.


My criteria are also display back and a seconds hand (small or central).
As far as my other collection goes, I have other sports watches, and dress watches. This really does not fill in any gaps in my collection, it is just that I have wanted one.
The size of watches in my collection size range from 34mm-43.5mm.

My questions are:

Is it worth going for a more complicated one (268) or am I better off going for a simpler watch (183 or 388)?
The savings on a simpler one are significant, which is nice.

Does the Panerai community value simpler watches more?

Are there any other reference numbers I should consider?

Thank you

[AEC]

I think you'll be very pleased with a 45mm Radiomir. I also just purchased one as my first taste of Panerai. I have worn mostly low-key Omega and Rolex watches up until now.

I like your idea of a PAM00609: correct case size, small seconds display, transparent case-back, and the 8-day power reserve is a nice nod to Panerai tradition. It's also very reasonably priced, in my opinion.

Have fun with your hunt!

[Cryten]

I always recommend the simpler models, complications aren't in Panerai's DNA (but they are in Richemont's). Having small seconds is as far as I would go otherwise the dial gets too cluttered.

But that's just my opinion. Yours may vary

[L_S_SHOE]

The community definitely values simplicity, but I think you can’t go wrong with the 8 days.


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[1William]

I like the 609 and have previously owned on and regret letting it go. You might also look at the 287. A cool and underappreciated watch. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

[multimedia]

Originally Posted by Cryten

I always recommend the simpler models, complications aren't in Panerai's DNA (but they are in Richemont's). Having small seconds is as far as I would go otherwise the dial gets too cluttered.

But that's just my opinion. Yours may vary

This

Cheers,
Joe

[pdnb]

I like cleaner dials on radiomir and can tolerate (or even like ) complications on luminors.

183 was the very first watch that attracted me to panerai.

You can also look at 190 if you are willing to buy pre-owned. It has 8 days and power reserve indicator on the back.

Good luck




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[rootbeer7]

My interest in Panerai first started with the Radiomir line. Unfortunately I couldn’t find one that I felt comfortable with. 47mm felt too big and 42/45 felt underwhelming. I went with 44mm Luminor, 390 and then 233. That was until I tried on a 47mm 232! If I could afford it I would have one tomorrow. My only advice is to try them all on and get what feels right to you.

[nicky77]

I do like the 287 but I would like an open back

[nicky77]

I like the 190, however it is above how much I want to spend.

[nicky77]

The 609 is growing on me.