Panerai PAM 931: Reference Guide & Shots
Reference Guide

Panerai PAM 931: Reference Guide & Shots

By Subexplorer · Feb 16, 2021 · 20 replies
Subexplorer
WPS member · Officine Panerai forum
20 replies5385 views9 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 ✉ 🔗

Subexplorer, a respected voice in the WatchProSite community, shares an in-depth look at his Panerai PAM 931. His detailed comparison with the PAM 687 and insights into the controversial 'California dial' offer invaluable context for collectors. This piece highlights the nuances of Panerai's design choices and the enduring appeal of vintage-inspired aesthetics.

... which arrived at the end of 2020 just in time for Santa to leave it under the Xmas tree.

Guess this is a most controversial Panerai: you just like it or not.

 As you know I have an special fondness for the so called California dials (a Rolex creation patented by them under the name “Error Proof Dial” in 1942) and as a matter of fact I already own a Pam 249 (THE Cali) and a Pam 424.

Now this 931 offers a gradient brown colored dial intended to look as a patinated dial which is different to the dial of the previous Pam 687.

The new 931 is a lighter brown which darkens just near the dial borders and indexes while the 687 has a darker brown with a slightly reddish hue depending on light.

This light brown of 931 will change and darken depending on the light incidence angle on dial and it makes very difficult to capture in pictures its real color.

Roman and Arabic indexes are creamy colored and stand out nicely making a very clear reading of time. The beautiful deep blued hands also help to read it.

If you wish to really appreciate its beauty it is better to view it under Sun light outdoors if possible.

The watch got the classic P3000 movement inside which equips many other classic Panerai models with two hands only (e.g. 372) and manual wind with three days power reserve inside a Radiomir 47 mm case (wire lugs case without crown bridge protection).

These big 47mm cases seat very comfortable on the wrist and wear smaller due to these wire lugs and open crown I personally feel.

I’m including a shot with my 687 just for comparison of their dials. In any case if you like it enough to consider its purchase my best suggestion is to view it in the metal, outdoors if possible and try it on your wrist first.

Thank you so much for reading and viewing!

Best cordial regards, Abel




















About the Panerai Radiomir Ref. 687

The Radiomir reference 687 is a distinctive offering within the Radiomir collection, notable for its specific dial configuration and case execution. It presents a different aesthetic compared to its close counterpart, the 685, appealing to collectors who appreciate subtle variations in vintage-inspired designs. This reference emphasizes a particular historical dial interpretation, distinguishing it from other Radiomir models that might feature different numeral layouts or finishes. It represents a specific stylistic choice within the broader Radiomir lineage.

The watch features a polished steel case, measuring 47mm in diameter, which is characteristic of the larger Radiomir cases. Powering the timepiece is the manual-wind P.3000 caliber, offering a substantial power reserve of three days. The crystal protecting the dial is made of Plexiglas, a material choice that further enhances its vintage appeal. The case design maintains the classic Radiomir wire lugs and cushion shape, consistent with the model's heritage.

For collectors, the 687 holds interest due to its specific dial color, often referred to as a tropical or faded brown, which provides a unique character. Its manual-wind movement and large case size align with traditional Panerai design principles, making it a desirable piece for those who value historical accuracy and a strong wrist presence. The preference between the 687 and its sibling, the 685, often comes down to individual aesthetic taste regarding dial execution.

Specifications

Caliber
P.3000
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
47mm
Dial
Brown
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Plexiglas

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
CH
Chronometer (aka yacomino)
Feb 16, 2021

I obviously like this one for its unusual yet traditional look (excluding the dial color which is less traditional but so cool!).

IN
India Whiskey Charlie
Feb 16, 2021

Congrats on a great looking watch...👍

CP
Cpt Scarlet
Feb 16, 2021

Your 931 looks very cool and I love the dial. This is a very tempting Panerai. Best regards The Captain

SE
sergio
Feb 16, 2021

going to buy the "tropical" Cali. Enjoy it too much, my friend

SU
Subexplorer
Feb 16, 2021

... since I viewed first shots of it and I wished to view it in the metal first. I was lucky the local distributor brought one of them which he offered to me. I couldn’t let it pass. I send you my big hug my dear Sergio! Cheers! Abel

SU
Subexplorer
Feb 16, 2021

... it is a very tempting piece. Cheers! Abel

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