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Christianch shares an unexpected acquisition: the Panerai PAM 786 Luminor 8 Days Set, featuring two distinct watches. This article explores his initial impressions of the set, highlighting the unique appeal of acquiring a curated collection in a single package. Christianch's personal experience offers valuable insights into the allure of Panerai's special editions.
By total chance I recently acquired not just one but two new Panerai
for my collection
Some background information:
The only Panerai in my collection is my beloved PAM 336 bought in
2011. This was the first panerai with the in-house P999 movement. After
this year SIHH announcement
I was intrigued by the Panerai PAM 786 Luminor 8 Days Set
that includes two watches:
PAM649 Luminor Black Seal Left Handed 8 Days Black Seal Destro.
PAM650 Luminor Daylight 8 Days
I really like the idea of a set. In a way it is a small collection in a box
After the launch I was thinking that it would be difficult to get this set and didn't think much of it. Yesterday however I just browsed to the brand new brand of a retailer
and I spotted the set in display.
I don't have a huge wrist but I was willing to try it on. First the daylight:

and the Luminor Black Seal Left Handed 8 Days Black Seal Destro.
Well as you probably know from the title it was love at first sight (or first try) and here is the set:
The presentation is so special that I am probably going to display the box as it is really well done and looks great. Of course the watches are more important than the box but I think that it is a nice touch from Panerai.
Here you can see the daylight at night:
The set again with the small torpedo
The set also includes 2 replacement straps (one for each). Note that the buckle is sewed like in the pre-vendome era. I wonder if one can find an official panerai rubber strap for these models...With 300MT water resistance a rubber strap in the box would have been appreciated!
Above you can see my whole Panerai collection
The daylight as a very unique look and looks pretty elegant with the blue alligator strap. The typeface on the dial is the old one used in the period that
inspires this edition (1997) so it has a very special look.
The Luminor Black Seal Left Handed 8 Days Black Seal Destro is also stunning...
Seems to work out fine on my wrist what do you think ?
I understand that many purists and collectors are a bit tired of limited editions but I think that Panerai did very well with this set (but dangerous as I reached a new record: 2 watches in the same day?!).
I like that both watches use the panerai in-house P5000 movement that has a eight days power reserve that is very useful indeed.
Both watches are a pleasure to charge (and not difficult at all as I have experienced in other power reserve watches). This is (or better said are) my first Luminor with the iconic panerai crown guard.
I was surprised that despite the size they do wear fairly well (perhaps due to the lugs or height) even in an average/smaller wrist.
Will soon share more photos of the watches in good use during the daily office/work life adventures
Thanks!
Christian
About the Panerai Mare Nostrum Steel Ref. PAM300
The PAM300 represents Panerai's Mare Nostrum series in a steel case configuration. This reference delivers the Mare Nostrum design in brushed steel construction with a substantial 52mm case diameter.
The watch features a brushed steel case measuring 52mm across, paired with a matching brushed steel bezel. Protection comes from 1.6mm sapphire crystal, while water resistance extends to 30 meters. The movement is the Calibre OP XXV, housed within the steel case construction.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a large-format steel sports watch from Panerai's Mare Nostrum collection. The 52mm case size positions it for those who prefer substantial wrist presence, while the brushed steel finishing provides a utilitarian aesthetic. The PAM300 offers an entry point into the Mare Nostrum series for collectors focused on steel case variants.
Specifications
- Caliber
- OP XXV
- Case
- Brushed Steel
- Diameter
- 52mm
- Dial
- Blue
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- 1.6mm Sapphire
About the Panerai Radiomir Ref. PAM336
The PAM336 represents Panerai's Radiomir collection in a 42mm pink gold configuration. This reference distinguishes itself within the Radiomir series through its precious metal construction and moderate case diameter.
The watch features a 42mm pink gold case paired with a matching pink gold bezel. Water resistance extends to 100 meters. The timepiece incorporates a 1.5mm sapphire crystal and houses the Calibre P.999 movement within its pink gold case construction.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a precious metal Radiomir in a versatile 42mm size. The pink gold case material positions the PAM336 as a luxury offering within the Radiomir lineup, suitable for those preferring noble metals over steel variants while maintaining the series' distinctive proportions.
Specifications
- Case
- Pink Gold
- Diameter
- 42mm
- Water Resist.
- 100m
- Crystal
- 1.5mm Sapphire
About the Panerai Luminor Marina Tokyo Ref. PAM415
The Panerai Luminor PAM415 is a special edition model, part of a limited series that often features unique design elements or tributes. This reference is distinguished by its specific dial configuration and case finishing, setting it apart from standard production Luminor models. It caters to collectors seeking variations within the Luminor family that offer a distinct aesthetic without deviating from the core design principles of the brand.
The PAM415 features a 44mm polished steel case, maintaining the robust dimensions characteristic of the Luminor line. It is fitted with a 3.5mm sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and clarity. The watch is powered by the Calibre OP II, a hand-wound mechanical movement known for its reliability. This movement provides a power reserve of 56 hours, offering practical daily wearability.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in limited production Panerai pieces. Its specific details, such as the dial design and the inclusion of a sewn leather strap, align with design cues from earlier periods, which are often sought after by enthusiasts. The PAM415 represents a particular moment in the brand's output, offering a blend of traditional Panerai elements with the exclusivity of a special edition.
Specifications
- Caliber
- OP II
- Case
- Polished Steel
- Diameter
- 44mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 300m
- Crystal
- 3.5mm Sapphire
About the Panerai Luminor Marina 8 Days Oro Rosso Ref. PAM511
The Luminor PAM511 is a notable reference within the Luminor collection, distinguished by its use of red gold for the case, which offers a warm and luxurious alternative to the more common stainless steel models. This particular model emphasizes a classic aesthetic while incorporating the robust design language characteristic of the Luminor series, appealing to collectors seeking a blend of traditional materials and modern watchmaking.
The watch features a 44mm polished red gold case, providing a substantial presence on the wrist. It is equipped with the in-house Panerai Calibre P.5000, a hand-wound mechanical movement known for its impressive eight-day power reserve. A 2.5mm thick sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring durability and clarity, while the solid red gold bezel frames the dial.
This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate the combination of precious metals with Panerai's distinctive design. Its eight-day power reserve is a significant technical feature, offering convenience and a nod to historical long-power-reserve timepieces. The PAM511 stands as a refined option within the Luminor lineup, offering a distinct material choice for those desiring a more opulent expression of the brand's heritage.
Specifications
- Caliber
- P.5000
- Case
- Polished Red Gold
- Diameter
- 44mm
- Dial
- Brown
- Water Resist.
- 300m
- Crystal
- 2.5mm Sapphire
About the Panerai Luminor Ref. PAM649
The Panerai Luminor PAM649 is a notable reference within the Luminor collection, distinguished by its inclusion in the exclusive "Pam 786 Set" offered in 2016. This set also featured the PAM650 Luminor Daylight and was presented in a substantial wooden box, which included a "Maiale" scale model. The PAM649 is specifically recognized as a black Destro model, indicating its left-handed crown configuration, a feature that appeals to a specific segment of collectors. Its presentation as part of a limited edition set underscores its particular positioning within the brand's offerings.
The PAM649 features a case crafted from stainless steel, characteristic of many Luminor models, providing a robust and substantial presence on the wrist. The watch is powered by a manual wind movement, consistent with Panerai's historical and contemporary practices for certain references, offering a direct connection to the watch's operation. The crystal protecting the dial is sapphire, known for its scratch resistance, ensuring durability and clear legibility. The dial is presented in black, providing a high contrast background for the luminous markers.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in limited edition sets and specific case configurations, such as the Destro layout. Its association with the PAM786 set, which included another distinct Luminor model and a collectible scale model, adds to its appeal as a comprehensive collector's item. The PAM649 represents a specific moment in Panerai's production, offering a variant that stands apart from standard production models through its limited availability and unique packaging.
Specifications
- Caliber
- P.5000
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 47mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 100m
- Crystal
- Sapphire