PAM 88 or 161?

[TonyD]

Wow more of these questions!

Gotten the Panerai bug and this will be my first. I like the GMT 44mm size and the idea of swapping straps for fun. I also enjoy a bracelet watch as well.

Two choices:
1. PAM88 my local dealer has one in stock, I tried it on and I love it. Interesting note is that it is serial number K0002. Call me weird but I think that is pretty cool haveing #2. Price is $6700, have not discussed any discount of maybe trying for a free strap etc.

2. PAM161 I have never seen one or tried on a 44mm on bracelet. I like the look of Ti/SS and having the option of a bracelet. They are calling today to see how long it will take to get one. List price is $9100.

Take the bird in hand?
Since I will want to swap straps just deal with it on strap and have fun?
Buy the bracelet later (huge $$?)
The 88 is 0002/4500, any idea how many 161's will be made?
Shoot the moon and spend money now with no regrets later?

This is not an investment and will be a daily wearer.

Advice?

[BoilerRxZ06]

I've bought my 88 last July and love it. The straps are what keep it so fascinating for me. And the fact that they have one ready to go out the door is awesome!

[MAC4130]

I am buying an 88 it is a truly beautifull watch and they are very sought after so it is not ussual to see them in stock at dealers! If you want it decide fast as it may not be there when you come back for it!
My AD had one that I put on layaway and a guy came in that same day to buy it, I was fortunate enough to beat him by a cuestion of hours! Before deciding I tried several AD's over the internet and 1 out of 6 dealers I called had 1 PAM 88 in stock!!! When in vegas I asked about it and none of them had one and they also told me it was very popular and very rare to have it in stock!
So I would go for that 88 you will love it!!!!
Sure you can go through gray dealers over the net but it is better to buy from an AD and you get your first strap for free!

[TonyD]

Just got back from the AD.... they had a white dial 251 Chrono... uuuggghhhhh Decisions.....

[brainbizz]

Need pics not a 161 but on a bracelet. I find the steel/Ti bracelets to heavy and prefer the all titanium. I would most likely give the nudge to the 88 if picking from 161,88,251. That being said I rarely wear either and prefer the 279 with brown dial.

[TonyD]

Amazing! I ask for some help and what do I get? All 3 choices all in a row!

Now imagine sitting in the AD looking at the image above... eeny meeny...

[BoilerRxZ06]

Originally Posted by lynntonyd

Amazing! I ask for some help and what do I get? All 3 choices all in a row!

Now imagine sitting in the AD looking at the image above... eeny meeny...

That's precisely the problem, there is no such thing as a wrong purchase with a Panerai! Every model is awesome and we all want them all. That being said, it's so hard to decide when you can only afford to buy 1-2 per year. I went with the 112 and 292 this year, but had so many others on the list.

[scf118c]

Just gotten a PAM 88 and loving it! Different feel from wearing a Rolex. But wearing a Rolex does give you the more prestigious feel...