233 case

[p_mcgee]

Is there a less expensive model with the same shaped case and domed dial as the 233? I love the 233 but the price is a non-starter for a Panerai.

[B. Doggy]

Unfortunately there's not. Check out the 312. It's a good modern PAM and a good way to jump into the Panerai world.

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by B. Doggy

Unfortunately there's not. Check out the 312. It's a good modern PAM and a good way to jump into the Panerai world.

x2.....but, I will humbly add that if you think the price of the 233 is a "non-starter for a Panerai", you probably won't be happy with a PAM.

[p_mcgee]

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

if you think the price of the 233 is a "non-starter for a Panerai", you probably won't be happy with a PAM.

Puzzling comment. I've been a PAM owner for 10 years & am looking for another. I figured $7K range should buy a nice one-- probably a 312 as was suggested above.

[ocwatching]

Originally Posted by B. Doggy

Unfortunately there's not. Check out the 312. It's a good modern PAM and a good way to jump into the Panerai world.

+2

312 was my start to the PAM world...

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by p_mcgee

Puzzling comment. I've been a PAM owner for 10 years & am looking for another. I figured $7K range should buy a nice one-- probably a 312 as was suggested above.

Aaaah, okay, internets miscommunication, then. My bad. To me, your statement made me think you thought a Panerai, regardless of its merits, shouldn't cost as much as a 233. I obviously disagree with that notion, and sorry for the misunderstanding.

[dalip]

Originally Posted by p_mcgee

Is there a less expensive model with the same shaped case and domed dial as the 233? I love the 233 but the price is a non-starter for a Panerai.

Because of the 8 day manual movement the case wears so much better than the 312 for me. I find the 1950s case of the 312 too bulky. I don't know of the same domed crystal and case combination. It's a killer on the wrist. As for price....well they can be had for around the 9/10K mark on here and that is way below what they can be had for here in Australia.

But I agree....too many in my way first for that price level.

If I hadn't picked up the 005 I'd go for a 233 now...but can't quite do it....yet

[joleel7]

Originally Posted by p_mcgee

Is there a less expensive model with the same shaped case and domed dial as the 233? I love the 233 but the price is a non-starter for a Panerai.

233 is very nice you may want to consider a pre loved 233? Range around 8 to 10k.

[psv]

The 233 is certainly one of the best Panerais in the current line up. Reasonable size at 44mm, beautiful 1950's case, the 1st model to get an in-house movement in the Panerai line-up makes a bit more attractive in my book. My only complaint is that I'm no fan of the PR display, makes the dial a bit too busy IMO.

Regardless, get a pre-loved 233, put a JV strap on it and be there!

[p_mcgee]

Originally Posted by joleel7

233 is very nice you may want to consider a pre loved 233? Range around 8 to 10k.

I've read about some of the problems with the early 233s. Is there a series or year where these problems were mostly resolved? Also, does the plexiglass crystal scratch easily?

[joleel7]

Originally Posted by p_mcgee

I've read about some of the problems with the early 233s. Is there a series or year where these problems were mostly resolved? Also, does the plexiglass crystal scratch easily?

Unfortunately I can't answer your questions since I don't own one and I am aiming for a 233 as well in the near future. I read what you read about 233 issue you best bet to ask p.com if you no one can answer here.

[bcacncnc]

The cheapest model with the 1950 case AND domed crystal is the 212. Looks quite nice IMHO.

[dotcomakazee]

The 233 is the "Daytona" of the PAM line in my opinion. I miss mine. :(

[sushisummo]

Love the 233

[Psmith]

I see it as Panerai's GMT IIc in a way (although I also agree with Ty's Daytona comparison) - a GMT with a bit of design flair, something that stands apart from the 312/320/etc

I think the PR/movement problems happened mostly with the I and Js, so K onwards is a safer bet

[walds11]

I believe it was the early series (I and maybe J?) that had issues with the power reserve fang getting stuck or something like that. I have a K series on the way, so it shouldn't matter The crystal is sapphire, not plexiglass.

Originally Posted by p_mcgee

I've read about some of the problems with the early 233s. Is there a series or year where these problems were mostly resolved? Also, does the plexiglass crystal scratch easily?

[Psmith]

Originally Posted by p_mcgee

Also, does the plexiglass crystal scratch easily?

Oops, missed this question... as Adam says, the crystal is sapphire (not acrylic/plexi). Just be aware that the 'dome' causes some distortion of the dial at certain viewing angles. Personally I like this, but others have found it irritating.