Help with first Panerai purchase

[DINGER]

I've decided that it's about time I took the plunge and added a Panerai to my collection. I've got my name down for a new Ceramic Sub but the more I think about the more I'm convinced that I should mix it up a bit. I can't afford both so I'm probably going to pass on the Sub.

I already own 2 SS sports watches so I'd like something with a leather strap, preferably brown. I love the simplicity of the 111 and the clear back but I'd prefer an automatic movement rather than a manual wind up. Do any other models have the clear back and auto movement?

Any suggestions or pictures of alternatives would be much appreciated together with any recommended AD's in the London area.

I must say that despite being manual I am hedging towards the 111, what's the current RRP?

Sorry for all the questions !!

[Carrik]

I have just had to make the same choice, I opted for a 111 and am very please with my choice, as I also own a sub non date its nice to have a manual as it will mainly be a weekend watch. Note: I have lef my name down on the Sub C just in case I come into some extra cash.

[canwatchco]

If you want automatic and clear back, then unfortunately you will have to spring for a more expensive watch. I believe the cheapest is the 312 at $7400 US list price. The 111 is almost $2000 less. The 183 Black Seal Radiomir is another one to look at. Basically the same package as the 111 but in a Radiomir case. If you are stuck on autos, then the 104 or 164 is the entry point. Priced midway beyween the 111 and 312.

[Psmith]

312 would be the obvious suggestion, but it's quite a big price jump from the 111 (£3,400 vs £4,500) ...although you can save a bit if you shop around online.

The 312 has a different case to the 111, and also has a date complication and the newer strap change system (there are other differences also)



Cheers

[DINGER]

Thanks for he recomendations chaps.

Will try and find some pictures of the watches mentioned above.

I still might go for the 111 after reading a members post about how nice it is to wind manually and watch the movement.

I'd prefer to buy from a shop rather than online, is there much saving to be had over the list price of £3,400?

[DINGER]

Just had a look at the 312, looks very nice and seems to be similar price to the Ceramic Sub (slightly cheaper). The only thing is I'd prefer a brown strap but that can be changed at a later date.

Just need to find somewhere with a selection so I can try some on and make a final decision.

[leonardH]

111 stunning choice :-)

[Psmith]

Originally Posted by DINGER

Just had a look at the 312, looks very nice and seems to be similar price to the Ceramic Sub (slightly cheaper). The only thing is I'd prefer a brown strap but that can be changed at a later date.

Just need to find somewhere with a selection so I can try some on and make a final decision.

The problem is finding a dealer with all of the models you are interested in.
Here in Aus, the ADs often have no stock at all and cannot even order specific models...

I think the UK is a bit better in this regard, but you may need to travel to find the models you are interested in, and then find that the AD will not discount (unless you are already a good customer).


Good luck

Cheers

[Carrik]

Wempe (Bond Street), had a 111 in the window today, but I dont think you will find a 312 to compare with.

[A1000]

312 is a great watch and with the quick change strap it is really quick and easy to change. You may be able to swing an additional strap or a strap swap with an AD. You won't be disappointed!

[Aston]

DINGER, for the exactly same reasons as you, I finally decided to go with the PAM312



The price is of course a "little bit" more than the PAM111, but you have a in house automatic movement (P9000), a date complication with NO cyclop, and the beautiful 1950 case.

The better thing to do is to try both and find which one fits the best on your wrist

[mach330]

Originally Posted by Aston

DINGER, for the exactly same reasons as you, I finally decided to go with the PAM312



The price is of course a "little bit" more than the PAM111, but you have a in house automatic movement (P9000), a date complication with NO cyclop, and the beautiful 1950 case.

The better thing to do is to try both and find which one fits the best on your wrist

i say 312 as well. i really want this watch, but i need my daytona. lol

[DINGER]

The 312 is stunning, from all the useful information I've been given on here it seems finding one is going to be the problem.

It will probably depend on what I can find first out of the 312 and 111. The hunt is always the fun part

I still might wait for the Ceramic Sub to come out and flip that, problem is I've never flipped a watch before, once I see the Sub I probably won't be able to part with it

[Aston]

Originally Posted by DINGER

It will probably depend on what I can find first out of the 312 and 111. The hunt is always the fun part

You're right, that's a great moment

But my advice would be to really try on your wrist the 312. The case is really different than the 111, and not so thick as expected.

Good Luck !

[Trurolexer]

111 is a GREAT choice for 1st PAM.

[dieselgeek]

I picked up the 111, but I'm really wanting that 312. Such a hawt watch!