The first watch I looked at was the Panerai PAM380 45mm Radiomir Black Seal. This entry level Black Seal is different from the prior Black Seal models such as the PAM183 because this version has the Pre-V OP logo on the dial. The PAM380 is a regular production stainless steel watch with black dial from the Historic Collection. I really like how the Pre-V logo looks on a Radiomir. Prior Panerai's with this Pre-V logo have only been on the Luminors, so if my memory serves me correct, this is the 1st Radiomir with the Pre-V logo.
Below is a picture of the PAM380 Black Seal (left) and the original PAM183 Black Seal. Notice the different fonts used for "Radiomir Black Seal". I guess Panerai made "Black Seal" smaller to balance out the dial since there's now the Pre-V logo at 6 o'clock.
Which version do you like better? I personally like the PAM380 on the left. The Pre-V logo gives this Radiomir a slightly more sporty look.
Any of the Black Seals makes a perfect entry level Panerai for those looking to buy their first Panerai or Radiomir.
Next watch is the Panerai PAM373 which is the 47mm Radiomir 3 Days Platinum. It's a unique edition of 199 pieces from the SIHH 2011 Special Editionn and houses the P.3000 hand wound in-house movement. Panerai introduced a lot of models this year with a domed Plexiglass crystal instead of the usual domed 1950 sapphire crystal, and this Plexiglass crystal gives the watches an extra touch of uniqueness.
I've never understood the desirability of this dial which is used on a vintage Panerai model, but after having seen the PAM373 in the flesh, now I understand why. I must say the PAM373 is much better in person than in pictures. The added heft of the platinum case makes this watch even more impressive. With a retail price of ~$40k, it definitely will be out of reach for many, but for those who anticipate on getting one, you won't be disappointed!
Another great feature with this PAM373 is the awesome display back. You get the see the new manual wind P.3000 in-house movement in all its glory. It's a LARGE movement which fits extremely well in this 47mm case. The balance wheel is fairly large as well which is a huge plus in my book. I never liked the small balance wheel on the P.2002 movement.
Look at how well the movement fills the space, and the caseback bezel is very thin which makes the movement looks even larger IMO. And a note to all the other brands who offer large watches and are reading my report, learn from Panerai and make a large sized movement. Beautiful beautiful beautiful!!!!
Notice the small Pre-V logo next to the 950 platinum stamp on the caseback bezel? Awesome touch by Panerai isn't it?
Maybe someday in the future Panerai can make a more skeletonized version of the P.3000. I would love to see more of the movement if possible.
Also, the P.3000 movement is so large that it doesn't look like it can fit in a regular 44mm Historic Luminor. So my hopes of a 44mm Historic Luminor using the P.3000 movement won't be coming to fruition.
This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2011-09-17 14:46:58