
AnthonyTsai offers an exclusive first look at the highly anticipated Panerai PAM398 and PAM399 Radiomir 1940 special editions from SIHH 2012. His detailed report, complete with original videos, complements earlier coverage by providing unique insights into these limited-production models. This article remains relevant for collectors interested in Panerai's historical connections and the brand's use of Minerva movements.
Nicolas already wrote a great piece on the below PAM399 here ( panerai.watchprosite.com ) so there's not much to add to his report. I'll try to add a couple more new things along with videos, so my post isn't too redundant.
The PAM399 47mm Radiomir 1940 in stainless steel and the red gold PAM398 47mm Radiomir 1940 Oro Rosso are what I consider to be the most anticipated new Panerai's from this year's offerings. Each model will be made in 100 pieces - the 1st 50 (#1 to #50) will be released as a PAM398 / PAM399 box set & the 2nd 50 (#51 to #100) will be sold on an individual basis.
Retail on the PAM399 is $28,100 while the PAM398 is $54,100. The box set will retail at approximately $85,000 (call your local Boutique for exact pricing).
Both watches have a plexiglass crystal and the AWESOME Rolex onion screw-down crown decorated with the OP logo. You really have to put your fingers on this massive crown - it feels like heaven!
The stainless steel PAM399 comes with a Pre-V buckle while the rose gold PAM398 comes with the newer styled Panerai deployant clasp.
In terms of the movement, the PAM398 & PAM399 house the OP XXVII calibre which is the same beautifully finished Minerva movement found for the first time in any Panerai watch in 2008's Special Editions 47mm Radiomirs PAM309 & PAM322. See below for SJX's breathtaking pictures of this Minerva movement.
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Below are videos of the PAM399 and PAM398 to give you a better look at the beauty of these 2 masterpieces.
video of the PAM399 47mm Radiomir 1940 in stainless steel
video of the PAM398 47mm Radiomir 1940 Oro Rosso (red gold)
And btw in the above PAM398 video, notice the color of the "red gold" case. Panerai defines "red gold" as 5NPt which has a more red color to it because of its higher copper content. Panerai also adds a tad more platinum to keep the metal from oxidizing.
I envy the future lucky owners of the PAM398 and PAM399!!!!
Cheers,
Anthony
This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2012-04-23 20:34:39
The PAM000 represents the Luminor Base Logo within Panerai's Luminor Base series. This reference carries the fundamental characteristics of the Luminor Base collection while incorporating the brand's logo display on the dial.
The watch features a 44mm polished steel case housing a black dial. The substantial case diameter positions this model within Panerai's larger-sized offerings, maintaining the proportions characteristic of the Luminor Base architecture.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking an entry point into the Luminor Base series with logo branding. The 44mm steel construction and black dial configuration represent a foundational specification within the model range, offering the core Luminor Base aesthetic in a straightforward execution.
No doubt we'll still have to wait a bit to see the Small Egiziano coming. For the moment being, I see this 399 as a first step into the Small Egiziano direction. Aaah, and please, with a regular movement. No need to get a sophisitcated but high priced one. Best, Nicolas
but a LE of 2000 pce with an inhouse manual 3d movement would have been MUCH better I don't understant the purpose of these micro editions
you can't have all the LE produced in thousands of pieces (390-4xx etc). Also the high end collectors have be....respected....no? Ciao - Sergio
And I bet it will have a P.3000 movement. Give it time and Panerai will most likely make this version someday. Cheers, Anthony
This one will be too tempting to not re-release in a similar form...
Love the crown. Thanks Anthony.
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