Assistance narrowing down options...

[LeChefre]

Hi all, I've been a Panerai admirer from afar for years now. I have always loved the look but thought they wore too big on the wrist. This was back when my only watch was a 36mm Datejust. I have since been wearing a 6 digit Sub and it's expanded my tolerance for bigger pieces. I tried on a 47mm Luminor this weekend and while it was big I was shocked that it wasn't too much. A 45mm Radiomir/1940 case was perfectly wearable. So I'm quite excited that it might finally be time to add a Panerai to my small collection. With there being so many models I thought I would enlist some help narrowing down the choices.

Here are my requirements:

- 45mm max
- Luminor/Radiomir/1940s cases are fine
- Easy strap change is a big plus (is the push button system all it's cracked up to be, see some horror stories)
- In house movement preferred, manual wind/automatic is ok
- Something considered a shining example of the brand/classic DNA is preferred
- Would like to stay under 8k for a minty pre-owned example

Thanks in advance all!

[Zyfon]

I highly recommend the 312

[Ruud Van Driver]

You need someone much more knowledgeable than me to recommend a specific model (someone like Cru, Mik, the two Nicks, Bill or Maltie).

However, what I will say is that a 1950 Luminor should meet most of your requirements. The majority are 44mm strap and changes are easy on those that have the mechanism. The ones I have are in-house movement but this is where you need one of the experts to comment further.

I can think of two models that spring to mind as classic shining examples with Panerai DNA. First is the 372, but it's 47mm and I don't think it has the easy strap change system. Nick C will be along later and he'll probably post THAT picture, which is probably one of the best shots on here.

Then there's the 233, which is another absolute classic but i think it's probably more than you want to pay. Again, you need expert advice there as I'm not sure what they run second hand. Dome crystal, 8 day power reserve, GMT function and as true to Panerai DNA as you like.

Good luck and enjoy the hunt

[nick c]

Originally Posted by Ruud Van Driver

You need someone much more knowledgeable than me to recommend a specific model (someone like Cru, Mik, the two Nicks, Bill or Maltie).

However, what I will say is that a 1950 Luminor should meet most of your requirements. The majority are 44mm strap and changes are easy on those that have the mechanism. The ones I have are in-house movement but this is where you need one of the experts to comment further.

I can think of two models that spring to mind as classic shining examples with Panerai DNA. First is the 372, but it's 47mm and I don't think it has the easy strap change system. Nick C will be along later and he'll probably post THAT picture, which is probably one of the best shots on here.

Then there's the 233, which is another absolute classic but i think it's probably more than you want to pay. Again, you need expert advice there as I'm not sure what they run second hand. Dome crystal, 8 day power reserve, GMT function and as true to Panerai DNA as you like.

Good luck and enjoy the hunt

Paul you are the best and a real panristi

[nick c]

Or 45mm Radiomir

[Cru Jones]

Based on what you wrote, I would say the 233 checks all of the boxes.

[vincent22]

PAM312 or PAM320. All the what made and make it Panerai are there. Here's a PAM320:

[Ruud Van Driver]

Originally Posted by nick c

Paul you are the best and a real panristi

I love this, it's an awesome shot of an amazing piece

Originally Posted by Cru Jones

Based on what you wrote, I would say the 233 checks all of the boxes.

Is it possible to get one in mint condition under 8k?

[Cru Jones]

Originally Posted by Ruud Van Driver

Is it possible to get one in mint condition under 8k?

Well, that might be a little tricky, but not impossible? Anyway, the 233 is so good, it's worth stretching to 9 or 10, IMO.

If the budget were 6, I would say 312.

[Maltie]

The 233 is the way to go, pure DNA, 45mm, manual wind, and currently you can find them on Chrono pre-used for low prices. There is even a dot dial, complete for 7.5K EUR. A real bargain if you ask me.

[nick c]

Originally Posted by Ruud Van Driver

I love this, it's an awesome shot of an amazing piece



Is it possible to get one in mint condition under 8k?

Thank you my friend 🙏

[jdog19]

It seems like the 312 or 233 fits your criteria. Note I have read several times that the 312 sits rather high and is not for everyone.