This or That?? Need some recommendations/opinions

[GermanyMatt]

Starting to think about my next watch - this one needs to be more of a casual look - jeans, driving mocs, t-shirt/polo/etc (a weekender of sorts).. Since I already have two rolex examples sporting a bracelet, a GMT IIc and a two-tone submariner bluesy, I'm in the market for a watch that looks especially good with a strap - hence the look at IWC and Panerai.

I must admit, the strap options with Panerai is very appealing, but the overall look and design of the IWC is a bit more attractive. I'm specifically looking at the IWC 7-day Portuguese or Panerai 320/321/359/351 - just assume I can get all these watches at the same price and not paying retail.

Any preferences from current owners?

[Young Connoisseur]

I'm not an owner of either but for me this is a no contest for the IWC.


The versatility is amazing with that piece.

It can suit whatever needs you have.

[esm]

How often will you be changing the straps?

Often - Panerai (the availability of straps are just too tempting). I'd go with 359.

No to not often - IWC 7 Day

[sierra11b]

JLC Master Compressor Chronograph 2 with the Quick Change strap system is another sporty option.

GO Senator Navigator Automatic or Senator Navigator Panorama Date are some great pilots watches that look great with a variety of straps for that casual look.

Although none of what I mention has a white dial, something about a nice white dial would be a great casual watch for the attire you mention.

[p_mcgee]

That IWC 7 day is a great watch but not suitable for a weekend beater IMO. Looks like a thick dress watch to me. I'd pick any of those PAMs, especially the 351.

[Psmith]

I prefer Panerai over IWC

The 320 (or 312) is a very nice watch

[kilyung]

I had the 312 and have the Port Auto. Love them both but I'd keep the IWC.

[GermanyMatt]

Damn..pretty much split 50/50. Anyone else?

[B. Doggy]

Tough one. I own a BP and a 190, but give a very slight edge to the 190 over IWC. At least for right now. I have a tough time knowing which watch is my favorite in the collection. I guess that means it's in a good place.

[JJL]

Originally Posted by GermanyMatt

Starting to think about my next watch - this one needs to be more of a casual look - jeans, driving mocs, t-shirt/polo/etc (a weekender of sorts).. Since I already have two rolex examples sporting a bracelet, a GMT IIc and a two-tone submariner bluesy, I'm in the market for a watch that looks especially good with a strap - hence the look at IWC and Panerai.

I must admit, the strap options with Panerai is very appealing, but the overall look and design of the IWC is a bit more attractive. I'm specifically looking at the IWC 7-day Portuguese or Panerai 320/321/359/351 - just assume I can get all these watches at the same price and not paying retail.

Any preferences from current owners?

I totally hear you as I have similar interest in finding a strapped companion for my Rolex Yacht-Master. Like you mentioned, while I like the idea of the strap swapping abilities of a Panerai, I'm not a fan of the overall look or brand. IWC on the other hand is a touch of class. I was looking at several items from the Portuguese line as well as the Spitfire offerings. In your case, I'd definitely go with the 7-day over any Panerai.

** I mean no offense to Panerai owners, this is just my opinion of course. They are nice watches, they just don't do it for "me".

[cwilson13]

I own a Port 7 Day and love it. Very versatile piece. I would pick it over the PAMs you listed. There are other PAMs that I would pick over it though not on your list; The 190 (which I own...and will be buried with!), the 233, 372, 232, come to mind. These are all a little more than the PAMs on your list but not a big stretch if you buy pre-owned. Good luck in your selection. PAM or IWC...cant go wrong.

[GermanyMatt]

PAM 190 is a nice watch for sure, and hard to find. The 232 and 372 are too big for me; love the 233, but not sure I'd find one in the price range I'm looking at.

[nick c]

Panerai here keeps value better