Need help deciding on my new and first Panerai

[CoveWatch]

Hi everyone, I’m looking to get my first Panerai.. been thinking about a fun summer watch and after looking through quite a few brands lineups, I think I want a Panerai... really thinking a white face because it’s different and seems more versatile with the strap changes, which really interest me! I’ve tried on a few of them before and 42mm seems to fit the best for me. I’ve narrowed it down to a Pam 1523, the new upcoming 906 and 728 (yes it’s not white but that blue is just beautiful). My current watches (that I still wear) are all Rolex, white 116500LN, 116710blnr, and a 126331 chocolate diamond dial on jubilee. Here are a couple of my thoughts on the 3 watches I’m considering:

906- it’s new and has a great price ($6400)for automatic, date and I like the blues in the Dial.. but it’s not completely an in house.. steel caseback takes away a tiny bit of cool.. also has the super easy click to change straps, although I checked the website and they don’t have other straps available for purchase yet... and while I haven’t tried this particular watch on since it’s not available yet.. I’ve tried other panerai due’s in a 42 and look a bit flat on the wrist.. also it’s new so will probably have to pay msrp or very close to it

1523 - I surprisingly like the height.. more bulky than the due but has a bit more wrist presence.. I almost wish there was a tweener in height between this and the due tho.... price is 7400 but it’s more discounted due to being an older model.. I prefer the blue markers in the 906 but this one can work also, at least there’s that blue second hand which I like! Automatic and exhibition back is a plus and has the easy strap system which is another big plus! I
Like the watch but from a side by side picture I prefer the 906 face, seems more fun for the summer

728 - I’ve seen the 729(too large for me) in person and that blue is really something! What I don’t like is there is no quick strap system whatsoever on this watch, no date, and I’ve never considered a manual wind watch before.. I’m thinking it will be a hassle especially with no power indicator but have read people love their manuals... price is a bit more at $8600 also and not much discount on these since they’re a tad harder to get it seems... brushed titanium case looks great tho especially with that blue sandwich Dial! Also seems like this watch would hold value the best outta the 3!

Ok sorry for the super long thoughts, but I would appreciate any feedback or opinions! I’ve been losing sleep thinking of which of these I want to get (but in a good way 😁)

Here are some pics

[Pattyb69]

I like the 1523 from those options

[Cru Jones]

You'll find that a lot of long-time fans of Panerai aren't so fond of the Due range due to, among other things, the compromised WR rating. But, what matters most is what you like on your wrist.

I would go 1523 out of those 3. The "bulk" of the 1523 is more in keeping with Panerai, and it probably fits better your wish for a "fun summer watch".

I put the word "bulk" in quotes, because the 4-digit Panerais are all thinner than traditional Panerais.

Personally, if I were to buy a white dial PAM, I would pick up a 113 or 654.

Good luck with the hunt!

[fullcourt]

out of the ones listed i'd go 728....

[aperna]

728 is beautiful. Have you looked at the carbo tech models? The 661 is a very handsome model


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[Auto16610]

As far as Panerai not having any straps available I wouldn't worry about that. There are plenty of aftermarket straps out there. I say go for any of those you find best pleasing to you.

[CoveWatch]

Thanks for all the input! �� I am leaning towards the 1523 but would just like to put one on first to make a final decision. As for the carbo, I think they look really cool but don’t know if it’s for me, plus they’re a bit pricier.. would like to love it more to spend more.

[nick c]

The 1523 it’s beautiful, congratulations in advance

[cramsey]

Another vote for 1523! Just haven’t been able to get excited about the Due line.

[brandrea]

The 906 says summer to me

[Urosfan]

I’d pick the 728 from your choices but I rather have the 44mm versions, they have a better resale value if you ever decide to part with it

[dnpina]

of those 3, the 728. i wish it came in 44mm.

[Aloha808]

I would go up a size if you really like that blue dial and gets the automatic movement with PAM000729.

[911cz]

The 1523 would be my pick. Great summer watch.

[CoveWatch]

thanks for all the input.. i got a chance to go in and try on the 1523 as well as a 1499 and decided to go with the 1499! didnt seem too big and its coming in within a couple days... will post pics!

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by CoveWatch

thanks for all the input.. i got a chance to go in and try on the 1523 as well as a 1499 and decided to go with the 1499! didnt seem too big and its coming in within a couple days... will post pics!

Congrats!! Looking forward to the pics. :-)

[bruinmd]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

You'll find that a lot of long-time fans of Panerai aren't so fond of the Due range due to, among other things, the compromised WR rating. But, what matters most is what you like on your wrist.

I would go 1523 out of those 3. The "bulk" of the 1523 is more in keeping with Panerai, and it probably fits better your wish for a "fun summer watch".

I put the word "bulk" in quotes, because the 4-digit Panerais are all thinner than traditional Panerais.

Personally, if I were to buy a white dial PAM, I would pick up a 113 or 654.

Good luck with the hunt!

Can you elaborate on the 'compromised WR rating' ? WR stands for ....?

And while we are on the subject, why have so many been turned off by the Due line, besides the fact it lacks the bulk of the more traditional 1950's cases.... or is that it doesn't really serve the dressy niche, as Panerai was hoping it would (given that many Radiomirs already do that)?

[Donaldkrama]

I would certainly choose the 1523, it is really a beautiful one.

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by bruinmd

Can you elaborate on the 'compromised WR rating' ? WR stands for ....?

And while we are on the subject, why have so many been turned off by the Due line, besides the fact it lacks the bulk of the more traditional 1950's cases.... or is that it doesn't really serve the dressy niche, as Panerai was hoping it would (given that many Radiomirs already do that)?

"WR" = water rating or water resistance...

The issue with the Due line is that the Luminor case (1950s or otherwise) with device protecting the crown historically is a dive watch with military pedigree. With Panerai, history is important. The Due, however, is a watch with which one can wash one's hands but not shower, swim or dive....so, for some/many, it does not really fit the image of what is a Panerai.

Setting aside all that, the 728 and 729 are attractive looking watches. Fashion watches, maybe, but good looking nevertheless.

In the end, get what makes you happy.