Considering first panerai 424 California

[zadams917]

Hey guys! I am considering my first and probably only Panerai purchase. I have always been a fan of the 424 California dial and am getting married in California later this year so it feels like a good sentimental watch. I've been a little reluctant about the size but was able to try one on recently and think that I can make it work. My big question is that I've been in discussion with a grey market dealer through Chrono 24 offering the watch new with box and papers for $5700. Seems a little too good to be true given the $8k MSRP, but there are more than a thousand 5 star reviews and to my novice eye the watch seems legit. Anyone that can offer any insight would be much appreciated.

[itsjknight]

I have the 424 and it is a great watch. I would recommend you purchase from an AD and get them to throw in a few straps.

[chemistman]

Probably worth getting it second hand seeing how much Panerai prices have fallen in the past few years.

Got my 424 last year for about 4.3k US from a local watch collector with box paper. It is an older model with dates which I actually prefer over the newer version.

Not sure about chrono24 but from what I know there are a lot of rep Pams around, and the quality is scaringly good. Best to buy from trusted sellers.

See Pic for comparison of 424 005 and 690



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[chemistman]

In terms of size the 47mm 424 actually wears small.

Because of the wire lugs it has about the same presence as a 44mm luminor. On my 6.5 inch wrist it fits perfectly, no lugs overhang... Etc.

If you like a snug / low profile fit just change to a thinner leather strap and you are all good to go.

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[cwilliams21]

OP, was the seller located in Iowa? If so, I was considering the exact same watch a few weeks ago. After careful consideration and the thought "if it's too good to be true"... kicked in I passed. Good luck!

[zadams917]

Thanks for the feedback everyone. The seller is in California so it must be a different one but I see a ton on Chrono 24 so not sure if you found yours through the same site. I'm also hearing that there will be a new california dial with a coffee dial at the next SIHH. Any thoughts about how this will affect the value/availability of the 424?

[synequano]

Why don’t you search for 249 or 448? It’s even more exclusive than 424,though I think 424 have better legibility as the hands are gold vs blue on the other two...

[mfer]

232 is the thinnest and wears smallest. Beautiful subtle brown dial and gold hands.

[Ravager135]

That price doesn't alarm me at all. Regular production Panerai models such as this one can be had for considerable discounts.

[ASW1]

The 424 is a distinctive choice and the California connection is fun.

In the UK lightly owned £4,500 would be a good price. The OPs price doesn't alarm.

As a wedding watch I would suggest sticking it on a dark brown croc strap to add some dressiness to it (if the dress code is smart).

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[kungpow]

If you’re looking for a California dial for sentimental reasons, how about the 448? It’s a bit more expensive, but has the word “California” engraved on the inner rehaut.

[zadams917]

Appreciate all the feedback!

Originally Posted by kungpow

If you’re looking for a California dial for sentimental reasons, how about the 448? It’s a bit more expensive, but has the word “California” engraved on the inner rehaut.

Interesting point, I haven't seen one in the flesh but will look into it

[Joearch]

424 is a great watch. Love the Rolex and Panerai early partnership DNA coming out in the dial configuration. 424 also has California engraved on the rehaut. I love mine. Looks good with brown and black straps. I did mime preowned and it was like new. Buy the seller.

[zadams917]

Seller offered me an even better price so I pulled the trigger. Thanks everyone for your input and now I wait very impatiently for the watch to come. I know there are lots of resources for panerai straps but any particular favorites that will fit this pam? TIA

[Joearch]

Originally Posted by zadams917

Seller offered me an even better price so I pulled the trigger. Thanks everyone for your input and now I wait very impatiently for the watch to come. I know there are lots of resources for panerai straps but any particular favorites that will fit this pam? TIA

The strap on my post above is an OEM Jules Vern JV that looks pretty solid IMHO.

[Kliminator]

Originally Posted by zadams917

Seller offered me an even better price so I pulled the trigger. Thanks everyone for your input and now I wait very impatiently for the watch to come. I know there are lots of resources for panerai straps but any particular favorites that will fit this pam? TIA

Post some pics when it comes in! The waiting game is always painful

[brandrea]

This thread makes me want a 424 too

[zadams917]

She has arrived and quite a beauty she is. Very pleased with the purchase and thank you to all for the helpful feedback.

Apparently I have too few posts to be able to post links so I will remedy that soon enough

[zadams917]

Need to pad my stats

[zadams917]

https://i.imgur.com/3JbLjMn.jpg

[crazymcmichael]

Originally Posted by Joearch

424 is a great watch. Love the Rolex and Panerai early partnership DNA coming out in the dial configuration. 424 also has California engraved on the rehaut. I love mine. Looks good with brown and black straps. I did mime preowned and it was like new. Buy the seller.

Super Nice watch!!

[Joearch]

Thx, I am real pleased to have the 424 in the collection. Feels great on the wrist and very unique in the Rolex centric world today.

[ud101]

Its going to be a nice purchase.

[zadams917]

Nothing but the PAM for the first week having it. Switched back to my tag today and I feel like I'm wearing a baby's watch