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RedBaronF2001 · 26 September 2009, 05:43 AM

There's a lot of talk and noise about the 312 as they're hitting the "streets." I see a lot of Paneristi (new and old) don't like it though. They claim that it should have a domed crystal like the 233 to make it more "historically significant." I'm taken back by this because the 312, in my eyes, is meant to be a modern interpretation piece, not a historically accurate piece.

I met with and talked for hours with a fellow Paneristi this week and he and I shared our thoughts on the piece and about "historically correct" Panerai. We came to the conclusion that the closest historically (from the vintage Panerai) accurate piece is the uber-unobtanium PAM00267 (of which 6 were made). Even the vaunted 203 isn't entirely correct with the 8 GIORNI BREVETTATO on the dial.

I'm not saying everyone should like it, but why should a silly crystal detract from an otherwise wonderful watch? The 312, for those keeping track, is 18.15mm thick with its slightly domed crystal. The 233 is 17.75mm with it's uber domed crystal. The 312 with an even more convex crystal would be nearly too thick to wear like the 270.

I'm just venting here. I often lurk on the "other" Panerai forum and every new 312 thread over there ends with negative comments about it's non-uber domed crystal.

ocwatching · 26 September 2009, 05:49 AM

hmmm....

I love mine..and I think its a pretty good interpretation of the "Fiddy" and the 233..I jump thru several watch forums..and mostly positive reviews...very interesting...

Panerai needed this inhouse movement and the 1950 case to counter the newer Rolex sports models...and it fits in well within their lineup...

I need to hop on the other sites to see the negative reviews...I think they are mostly about how hyped up the watch was and now pricing is coming down to reality..but that happens with all new and hot watches...

Interesting...

brainbizz · 26 September 2009, 05:55 AM

It is interesting not having the domed crystal. I feel it actually works better due to distortion than the 270.

RedBaronF2001 · 26 September 2009, 05:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ocwatchnewbie

..I jump thru several watch forums..and mostly positive reviews...very interesting...

I suppose there are probably more positive than negative reviews. I, for one, am sick of the crystal talk though. I think it brings negativity to a nice watch that the hardcore shun because of a silly thing. This is the direction Panerai needs to move in order to compete with other hot brands.

ocwatching · 26 September 2009, 06:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RedBaronF2001

This is the direction Panerai needs to move in order to compete with other hot brands.

Launch Mini · 26 September 2009, 06:02 AM

If they want a "historically correct" replication, then there would only be ONE Panerai.
I think it is a great watch. I don't have one, but I would consider one if I were back in the market.

Like saying, the Submariner is crap, because it has a saphhire crystal, not plexi.

Too many critics. People like/love the 88. What is so historical about that one.

RedBaronF2001 · 26 September 2009, 06:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Launch Mini

If they want a "historically correct" replication, then there would only be ONE Panerai.
I think it is a great watch. I don't have one, but I would consider one if I were back in the market.

Like saying, the Submariner is crap, because it has a saphhire crystal, not plexi.

Too many critics. People like/love the 88. What is so historical about that one.

Spot on

natrab · 26 September 2009, 06:24 AM

It all depends on what you're going for. I was looking for a reliable, large and vintage styled watch. The 312 is exactly what I was looking for. It's a winner in my book.

If I were wanting a historically accurate watch, I would try to go out and find a real vintage Panerai.

I think of it the way I think of music. If a band covers another bands tune, do you want to hear them play it exactly the same? Isn't it better if they add their own flavor to it? I like the flavor Panerai has added to the vintage look of the 312.

johannsmit · 26 September 2009, 06:49 AM

I picked up my 312 last week (nearly fainted when the AD called and said my watch is here

) and I can't stop looking at it. Love the look. As for the crystal, I personally don't think the domed crystal would have done this watch justice, as the case is a lot thicker than most people realize (18.15 mm) and IMHO the crystal is looking just fine. I think it would have looked very heavy with the domed crystal. I looked at the 233 with the domed crystal and the case is quite a lot thinner than the case of the 312. On the 233 it looks good.

I also read a lot about the watch before I bought it (a lot of people don't like the small date window, or they wanted the date magnifier, or or or.) The first time I picked the watch up and put it on my wrist, all those thoughts disappeared and I was a believer!

Try this watch; there is a good chance it will sing to you

fourizonly · 26 September 2009, 07:12 AM

Stop caring what other people think and just enjoy the watch.

There will be people who don't like the car you drive or the clothes you wear, but who cares! You bought the watch for yourself and not for others to judge.

RedBaronF2001 · 26 September 2009, 07:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fourizonly

Stop caring what other people think and just enjoy the watch.

There will be people who don't like the car you drive or the clothes you wear, but who cares! You bought the watch for yourself and not for others to judge.

It's not that I care about what the others think as much as I hate for potential 312 owners who do to be turned off because the hard core think it should have a more domed crystal.

Me? I love the watch and I am wearing it out tonight to show my watch buddies over a few beers.

Launch Mini · 26 September 2009, 07:27 AM

How is the winding on the 312 compared to the 233?
I think I like the cleaner dial of the 312 and the non distorted numbers over my 233.

brainbizz · 26 September 2009, 07:51 AM

Easy there mini 312 over a 233. IMHO no comparison. 233 is a different animal which is close to perfection. The 312 to me is more practical than 270. I have the 270 and have worn it only twice since i wear my 233 or 289 more often. The simplicity and symmetry of 233/289 is to perfect. The 312 is a great watch without a doubt and a wonderful addition to any collection. But I would never part with my 233 to get one. My issue with the domed crystal on the 270 is the numbers are smaller and under the curve in the crystal which drives me crazy 233 not as bad an issue. Since the 312 has the flatter crystal there is no distortion which works better IMHO with the 9 on a non 47mm watch.

ocwatching · 26 September 2009, 08:08 AM

brainbizz...love that 270!...and thanks for the frank review...

CorruptedSanity · 26 September 2009, 08:38 AM

I guess some are annoyed at the lack of a dome, im those that hoped they would retain the 233/270 dome on the 312. Doesnt matter that much to me becauase the following features outweigh the lack of dome.

1- Inhouse movement
2- sandwich dial
3- 1950 case
4- beautiful clean dial (love the 6 / 9 / 12)
5- half polished half brushed case

I would have loved it to have been domed but that would mean paying about double for a 233 or 270 which I think is unreasonbale for a Panerai inhouse movement.

Im waiting for my AD to get some in stock.

emagni · 26 September 2009, 08:42 AM

Is it possible to switch the 312 crystal to a dome crystal? Might not be a bad idea if you get bored of the 312 several years later.

Nica64 · 26 September 2009, 08:58 AM

I saw one live yesterday for the first time when I attended the Panerai event to introduce the 2009 collection

, I held and tried this watch and let me tell you that I don't know why people complain about this watch, it's a beautiful piece that I quickly identified as my next watch to get.

What else can I say...... I'm in love with this watch and Panerai hit a home run with this model

312 all the way!!

Launch Mini · 26 September 2009, 11:32 AM

Don't get me wrong, I really like my 233, and the domed crystal.
But I do like the cleaner dial.
Maybe I'm just setting myself up to get a 312 too.

brainbizz · 26 September 2009, 11:58 AM

I always find it hard to part with a watch and usually just add to as well. It is a sickness. Now I just have to figure out what to do with all those darn boxes.

brainbizz · 26 September 2009, 01:55 PM

Another pic I found comparing domed crystal

TswaneNguni · 26 September 2009, 03:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brainbizz

I always find it hard to part with a watch and usually just add to as well. It is a sickness. Now I just have to figure out what to do with all those darn boxes.

TswaneNguni · 26 September 2009, 04:07 PM

It all depends where you are coming from and where you are going.

At its pricepoint in the Panerai range, the 312 is a great buy.

For the first time buyer,the 312 is a great buy.For those with larger collections,it depends on what is already in the collection and those will obviously be more selective in buying.

IMO,nothing currently in ss comes close to the 127/232/249/203 et al. If I can find any of those it will be very seriously considered.Personally,I wont ad a 312 to my current collection.

In my own collection,whenever I take the 289 out of the box,the others feel and look a bit broken !! >>

One of those special ones IMO.

So looking at the 312 on its own ..... nothing wrong with that one !! Its a great design,not perfect,but nothing is !!I think anyone interested in buying one can do so with absolute confidence!!

Trurolexer · 26 September 2009, 09:32 PM

I like the simplicity of 312.

daveathall · 27 September 2009, 12:37 AM

It is a modern interpretation and the detractors should see and accept this, it is not meant as a copy, I would interpret the negative comments as jealousy. Why cant people just enjoy the watch (any watch for that matter) for what it is rather than what they want it to be.

Pulpdiction · 27 September 2009, 03:29 AM

Well I just bought one today, my first Panerai, and not my last. Absolutely love it and love the simplicity of it.

Watch Fan · 27 September 2009, 06:02 AM

I have a 312 and love it. I agree with those who have pointed out that due to the thickness of the watch, I don't think it would do well with a domed crystal either. It's fine just the way it is. I couldn't fault this watch for anything, as I think it is perfect just the way it is. Like all things, everyone has an opinion, and that's fine. All I can say is that I am very happy with mine and would definately recommend it.

bodybump · 27 September 2009, 06:25 AM

Might have one that need a home...

mfer · 27 September 2009, 11:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RedBaronF2001

I'm just venting here. I often lurk on the "other" Panerai forum and every new 312 thread over there ends with negative comments about it's non-uber domed crystal.

Don't I know it. I don't post there anymore.

TswaneNguni · 27 September 2009, 01:51 PM

A domed crystal would not hace suited the 312s overall case thickness and design.The crystal looks great oin the 312.My personal problem is the date that looks a bit lost on the righthand side of the dial,but thats a small problem on which is overall a great design.

26 September 2009, 05:43 AM	#1
RedBaronF2001 Member Join Date: May 2008 Real Name: Chris Location: Nashville, TN Posts: 575	No Love for the 312? There's a lot of talk and noise about the 312 as they're hitting the "streets." I see a lot of Paneristi (new and old) don't like it though. They claim that it should have a domed crystal like the 233 to make it more "historically significant." I'm taken back by this because the 312, in my eyes, is meant to be a modern interpretation piece, not a historically accurate piece. I met with and talked for hours with a fellow Paneristi this week and he and I shared our thoughts on the piece and about "historically correct" Panerai. We came to the conclusion that the closest historically (from the vintage Panerai) accurate piece is the uber-unobtanium PAM00267 (of which 6 were made). Even the vaunted 203 isn't entirely correct with the 8 GIORNI BREVETTATO on the dial. I'm not saying everyone should like it, but why should a silly crystal detract from an otherwise wonderful watch? The 312, for those keeping track, is 18.15mm thick with its slightly domed crystal. The 233 is 17.75mm with it's uber domed crystal. The 312 with an even more convex crystal would be nearly too thick to wear like the 270. I'm just venting here. I often lurk on the "other" Panerai forum and every new 312 thread over there ends with negative comments about it's non-uber domed crystal.

26 September 2009, 05:49 AM	#2
ocwatching "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Phil Location: CA Posts: 5,374	hmmm.... I love mine..and I think its a pretty good interpretation of the "Fiddy" and the 233..I jump thru several watch forums..and mostly positive reviews...very interesting... Panerai needed this inhouse movement and the 1950 case to counter the newer Rolex sports models...and it fits in well within their lineup... I need to hop on the other sites to see the negative reviews...I think they are mostly about how hyped up the watch was and now pricing is coming down to reality..but that happens with all new and hot watches... Interesting... __________________ too much into watches...

26 September 2009, 06:02 AM	#6
Launch Mini "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Real Name: John Location: Canada, eh Watch: can I? Posts: 6,240	If they want a "historically correct" replication, then there would only be ONE Panerai. I think it is a great watch. I don't have one, but I would consider one if I were back in the market. Like saying, the Submariner is crap, because it has a saphhire crystal, not plexi. Too many critics. People like/love the 88. What is so historical about that one. __________________ Something witty to go here. Member # 293

26 September 2009, 06:49 AM	#9
johannsmit Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Utah, USA Posts: 49	my 2 cents I picked up my 312 last week (nearly fainted when the AD called and said my watch is here ) and I can't stop looking at it. Love the look. As for the crystal, I personally don't think the domed crystal would have done this watch justice, as the case is a lot thicker than most people realize (18.15 mm) and IMHO the crystal is looking just fine. I think it would have looked very heavy with the domed crystal. I looked at the 233 with the domed crystal and the case is quite a lot thinner than the case of the 312. On the 233 it looks good. I also read a lot about the watch before I bought it (a lot of people don't like the small date window, or they wanted the date magnifier, or or or.) The first time I picked the watch up and put it on my wrist, all those thoughts disappeared and I was a believer! Try this watch; there is a good chance it will sing to you Attached Images

26 September 2009, 07:27 AM	#12
Launch Mini "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Real Name: John Location: Canada, eh Watch: can I? Posts: 6,240	How is the winding on the 312 compared to the 233? I think I like the cleaner dial of the 312 and the non distorted numbers over my 233. __________________ Something witty to go here. Member # 293

26 September 2009, 05:55 AM	#3
brainbizz Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 608	It is interesting not having the domed crystal. I feel it actually works better due to distortion than the 270.

26 September 2009, 06:24 AM	#8
natrab "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Real Name: Nate Location: California Watch: PAM 312 Posts: 36	It all depends on what you're going for. I was looking for a reliable, large and vintage styled watch. The 312 is exactly what I was looking for. It's a winner in my book. If I were wanting a historically accurate watch, I would try to go out and find a real vintage Panerai. I think of it the way I think of music. If a band covers another bands tune, do you want to hear them play it exactly the same? Isn't it better if they add their own flavor to it? I like the flavor Panerai has added to the vintage look of the 312.

26 September 2009, 07:12 AM	#10
fourizonly "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: SoCal Watch: Rolex SS Daytona Posts: 36	Stop caring what other people think and just enjoy the watch. There will be people who don't like the car you drive or the clothes you wear, but who cares! You bought the watch for yourself and not for others to judge.

26 September 2009, 07:51 AM	#13
brainbizz Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 608	Easy there mini 312 over a 233. IMHO no comparison. 233 is a different animal which is close to perfection. The 312 to me is more practical than 270. I have the 270 and have worn it only twice since i wear my 233 or 289 more often. The simplicity and symmetry of 233/289 is to perfect. The 312 is a great watch without a doubt and a wonderful addition to any collection. But I would never part with my 233 to get one. My issue with the domed crystal on the 270 is the numbers are smaller and under the curve in the crystal which drives me crazy 233 not as bad an issue. Since the 312 has the flatter crystal there is no distortion which works better IMHO with the 9 on a non 47mm watch. Attached Images

26 September 2009, 08:08 AM	#14
ocwatching "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Real Name: Phil Location: CA Posts: 5,374	brainbizz...love that 270!...and thanks for the frank review... __________________ too much into watches...

26 September 2009, 08:38 AM	#15
CorruptedSanity Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Real Name: Saif Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE Watch: AP Posts: 402	I guess some are annoyed at the lack of a dome, im those that hoped they would retain the 233/270 dome on the 312. Doesnt matter that much to me becauase the following features outweigh the lack of dome. 1- Inhouse movement 2- sandwich dial 3- 1950 case 4- beautiful clean dial (love the 6 / 9 / 12) 5- half polished half brushed case I would have loved it to have been domed but that would mean paying about double for a 233 or 270 which I think is unreasonbale for a Panerai inhouse movement. Im waiting for my AD to get some in stock.

26 September 2009, 08:42 AM	#16
emagni "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: on Earth Watch: ing TRF Posts: 1,284	Is it possible to switch the 312 crystal to a dome crystal? Might not be a bad idea if you get bored of the 312 several years later. __________________ Watches: More than my fingers can count

26 September 2009, 08:58 AM	#17
Nica64 "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: USA Posts: 2,596	I saw one live yesterday for the first time when I attended the Panerai event to introduce the 2009 collection , I held and tried this watch and let me tell you that I don't know why people complain about this watch, it's a beautiful piece that I quickly identified as my next watch to get. What else can I say...... I'm in love with this watch and Panerai hit a home run with this model 312 all the way!! __________________ ______________________________ You can't turn back the clock. But you can wind it up again.

26 September 2009, 11:32 AM	#18
Launch Mini "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Real Name: John Location: Canada, eh Watch: can I? Posts: 6,240	Don't get me wrong, I really like my 233, and the domed crystal. But I do like the cleaner dial. Maybe I'm just setting myself up to get a 312 too. __________________ Something witty to go here. Member # 293

26 September 2009, 11:58 AM	#19
brainbizz Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 608	I always find it hard to part with a watch and usually just add to as well. It is a sickness. Now I just have to figure out what to do with all those darn boxes.

26 September 2009, 01:55 PM	#20
brainbizz Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 608	Another pic I found comparing domed crystal Attached Images

26 September 2009, 04:07 PM	#22
TswaneNguni "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Real Name: Chris Location: . Watch: Daytonas/Subs/GMTs Posts: 12,609	It all depends where you are coming from and where you are going. At its pricepoint in the Panerai range, the 312 is a great buy.For the first time buyer,the 312 is a great buy.For those with larger collections,it depends on what is already in the collection and those will obviously be more selective in buying. IMO,nothing currently in ss comes close to the 127/232/249/203 et al. If I can find any of those it will be very seriously considered.Personally,I wont ad a 312 to my current collection. In my own collection,whenever I take the 289 out of the box,the others feel and look a bit broken !! >> One of those special ones IMO. So looking at the 312 on its own ..... nothing wrong with that one !! Its a great design,not perfect,but nothing is !!I think anyone interested in buying one can do so with absolute confidence!!

26 September 2009, 09:32 PM	#23
Trurolexer Banned Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: USA Watch: 5513MaxiI+PreComex Posts: 18,421	I like the simplicity of 312.

27 September 2009, 12:37 AM	#24
daveathall "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Dave Location: England. Watch: Various Posts: 7,305	It is a modern interpretation and the detractors should see and accept this, it is not meant as a copy, I would interpret the negative comments as jealousy. Why cant people just enjoy the watch (any watch for that matter) for what it is rather than what they want it to be. __________________ KINDEST REGARDS DAVE

27 September 2009, 03:29 AM	#25
Pulpdiction "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: England Posts: 93	Well I just bought one today, my first Panerai, and not my last. Absolutely love it and love the simplicity of it.

27 September 2009, 06:02 AM	#26
Watch Fan "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: California Watch: Sea Dweller Posts: 676	I have a 312 and love it. I agree with those who have pointed out that due to the thickness of the watch, I don't think it would do well with a domed crystal either. It's fine just the way it is. I couldn't fault this watch for anything, as I think it is perfect just the way it is. Like all things, everyone has an opinion, and that's fine. All I can say is that I am very happy with mine and would definately recommend it.

27 September 2009, 06:25 AM	#27
bodybump ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2024 SubLV41 Sponsor & Boutique Seller Join Date: Sep 2008 Real Name: Oscar Location: Florida Watch: Me!!! Posts: 23,233	Might have one that need a home... __________________

27 September 2009, 01:51 PM	#29
TswaneNguni "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Real Name: Chris Location: . Watch: Daytonas/Subs/GMTs Posts: 12,609	A domed crystal would not hace suited the 312s overall case thickness and design.The crystal looks great oin the 312.My personal problem is the date that looks a bit lost on the righthand side of the dial,but thats a small problem on which is overall a great design.

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