You know, as briefly mentioned in post above, Panerai really does not have a history of it's own until the 1990s. And Panerai owns much of it's success to Sly, along with Reichmont. The original Panerais were actually more Rolex than Panerai. Rolex made cases, Rolex made movements. So, most of Panerai's military history is actually Rolex history. One could even go as far as to say, that Panerais of today, except for the models with the in-house movements, are actually just cheap replicas of the original Rolex designed, manufactured, and Rolex movement Panerais of the 1930, 40s, and 50s.
So one could say correctly, that Panerai grew from Rolex and Rolex is the parent of Panerai. Very close connection between Rolex and Panerai.
Now that is a Panerai I would like to see again! New standard issue Panerais with Rolex movements! And if I had the funds, I would love to get a model 21. !!
