Panerai PAM 199 Regatta: Thoughts on a Vintage Classic
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Panerai PAM 199 Regatta: Thoughts on a Vintage Classic

By amanico · Jul 20, 2021 · 40 replies
amanico
WPS member · Officine Panerai forum
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Amanico, a revered voice in the WatchProSite community, revisits a significant piece from his collecting past: the Panerai PAM 199 Regatta. His reflective post not only chronicles the journey of this specific reference but also offers a comparative analysis with other iconic Panerai Submersible models from the early 2000s, providing invaluable context for both seasoned collectors and those new to the brand's heritage. This deep dive into a limited edition from nearly two decades ago highlights the enduring appeal and unique characteristics that define Panerai's golden era of limited production.

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The PAM 199, the Submarsibe Regatta, was in my collection as soon as it was unveiled, in 2004. It was a limited edition of 500 pieces, and as every LE from Panerai, at that time, a quite hot model. 



The PAM 199 is a Submersible, with a dedicated case back, signed " Laureus Awards May 2004 " and a hobnail dial. 

If my memory serves me well, the dots are tritium while the hands and the " 12 " and " 6 " are luminova, hence the patina developed by the dots only. 

I sold it in 2006, because it was the en of my journey with Panerai at that moment, for different reasons, and because I added another Submersible which was a true killer, the PAM 64, aka the Bomba, issued in 2000, in a limited edition of 500 pieces as well. I also had the PAM 92, " Arktos " so called Mike Horn, limited to 500 pieces in 2004, which looked like a Submersible but which was, strangely, a Luminor. So, the competition was fierce among the Submersible offers. And I always had a problem with the date at 3 o' clock, which ruins the dial. A pity as I would have probably kept one of them, if the date was not there. 

Anyway, the Regatta had its own charm with its hobnail dial and its patina on the dots. A kind of sweetness which the two others ( Bomba and Arktos ) didn't have. 

The 44 mm case was perfect for me,  much less heavy than the Bomba which was thicker, too, and more comfortable then the Arktos because of its domed and engraved case back which is as beautiful as it is painful for th wrist. 

The BOMBA PAM 64: 


The Arktos PAM 92: 


Yes, when you compare these three, the Regatta was the more polyvalent, offered the best compromise among these three. It was water resistant enough, with 300 meters, and reliable, with its good old OP III movement which is an ETA, with a power reserve of 42 hours, which is good for an automatic movement.

As I said, I sold it in 2006, to a good friend of mine. 

I saw it on his wrist for the next 6 years. Then life separated us, since last week, when we met again. 

And what watch did he wear? The PAM 199! 

Here are the photos I could take with his kind permission: 







It is always a special moment when you see a good old friend again, after all these years. It is also a special moment when you see a watch which was dear to you, after such a long time.

Best,

Nicolas

About the Panerai Luminor Submersible Regatta Ref. PAM199

The PAM199 represents Panerai's approach to regatta timing within the Luminor Submersible series. This reference combines the diving-oriented Submersible platform with specialized regatta functionality, positioning it as a sports-focused variant within the broader Luminor collection.

The 44mm polished steel case houses the Calibre OP III movement and features a polished steel bezel. The watch incorporates a 3.5mm sapphire crystal with magnifier and maintains 300-meter water resistance, aligning with the Submersible series' aquatic capabilities. The polished steel construction creates visual consistency between the case and bezel elements.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking Panerai's interpretation of sailing-specific complications within a diving watch framework. The PAM199 occupies a specialized position for those interested in regatta timing functions while maintaining the core characteristics of the Submersible line. The combination of sports functionality and steel construction provides an alternative to more traditional Luminor variants.

Specifications

Case
Polished Steel
Diameter
44mm
Water Resist.
300m
Crystal
3.5mm Sapphire w/Magnifier

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
WA
watchbiao
Jul 20, 2021

I love reminiscing about that era of Panerai (early 2000's)!

JA
Jay (Eire)
Jul 20, 2021

I bought my PAM25 in early 2004, I loved that watch. I remember the excitement of the hunt (at they all needed to be hunted at that time), and of the purchase. And the first day wearing it out and about in HK while on vacation. Similar patina to yours over time. I sold it to fund a bicycle purchase (carbon is expensive). I do think many times about trying to find that same watch and buy it back.

GE
Gelato Monster
Jul 20, 2021

Something you would have kept.

JA
Jay (Eire)
Jul 21, 2021

44mm is 44mm, but to me I wanted to avoid a shiny (steel) 44mm. I came around to steel very quickly though, and even to 47mm. The Submersible is the watch I look for every year in Panerai’s new releases. Would love the 42mm Carbotech but I just can’t justify it.

AM
amanico
Jul 21, 2021

They left the ship... A long time ago.

GE
Gelato Monster
Jul 21, 2021

Love this more than mare nostrum slytech

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