Vintage
Amanico presents an in-depth review of the elusive Panerai PAM 40, a watch considered a 'test watch' from the 1999 SIHH and a precursor to later titanium models. This article uncovers the unique characteristics and historical significance of the PAM 40, distinguishing it as a collector's gem with a mysterious past.
Since I made a review about the Pam 36, it seemed to me that it wasn't fair to not do a review of the Pam 40, a mysterious watch.
The link to the review of the Pam 36
panerai.watchprosite.com
Why Mysterious?
Because you can always have a look on all the Panerai Catalogs, current editions or Limited Editions, you will never find it...
Presented at the 1999 SIHH, this Pam 40 was considered by Panerai like a Test Watch for titanium cases.
Will there be clients ofr this kind of watches?
Will the titanium be good for these watches?
A lot of questions, with no answers....
The Pam 40 was part of the pre Vendome projects, and since Cartier Vendome bought the brand in early March 1997, they also bought the watches, cases, spare parts, and tools.
But also some projects, as the Pam 21, the 40, and the Subs...
Back to the Pam 40, it was presented at Geneva in April 1999 as a limited edittion watch which it's not, as the packaging is the one of the current production, but was produced in an only bash of 200 pieces.
The watch was offered only in a few countries like USA, GERMANY, JAPAN and FRANCE.
Here's the packaging...
The Pam 40 is considered , hence it's a test watch, as the grandmother of the Pam 36, in titanium too, but with a brown dial, tritium indexes, and see through case back...
The 40 is the only Panerai which join all these elements for an unique combo: Titanium case, Solid case back, black dial, tritium indexes...You can search, you won't find any other...
This is this unique combo which gives it its strengh and originality.
The contrast between the light grey titanium, the Deep black case and the creamy indexes is simply marvellous.
Look at this!
The proportions of the watch are ideal, not too big, not too small, and first of all, not too thick, which makes this watch very appealing to wear, as you don't even feel it on your wrist, the balance is evident, and the writing on the dial is perfect, even if for once I prefer the 4 lines of the Pam 36 dial.
Yes, absolutely perfect on the wrist!
One more word about the case back...At the contrary of the Pam 36, this is a solid case back which houses an ETA movement, reliable, and very accurate, that's exactly what we wait of a Panerai.
It's made in titanium grade 2, as for the case.
So, to conclude one answer to a question you maybe have...
Which is the more attractive, the 36 or the 40?
I'd say that if you can afford both ( be careful, it's quite pricey...), and that you're completely mad about Panerai, go on them both.
I'd say that each of thes 2 watches is very interesting.
The 40 because of its mystery, its perfcet and unique combo, the fact that it's the first panerai titanium watch.
The 36 because of its brown and gorgeous dial, of its 4 lines...
I think that one of these 2 are to be included in a Panerai collection as they are unique and true piece of the real panerai history, pieces that you will never see produced in Out Of Range pieces! LOL
Best to All, and enjoy!
Nicolas
The PAM200 represents Panerai's Radiomir GMT series in a 45mm configuration, distinguished by its white gold case construction and GMT complication with 8-day power reserve. This reference utilizes the P.2002 movement and maintains the characteristic Radiomir case profile within the brand's contemporary collection.
The watch features a 45mm white gold case housing a black dial. The P.2002 movement provides GMT functionality alongside an extended 8-day power reserve, positioning this reference among Panerai's more complex offerings within the Radiomir GMT lineup.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking Panerai's GMT complications in precious metal construction. The white gold case material and substantial 45mm sizing place the PAM200 within the brand's higher-tier offerings, suitable for those prioritizing both travel functionality and premium materials in their Panerai collection.
The PAM 40 is indeed a collector's gem. Just one part about the genealogy - the PAM25 was the first titanium watch produced by Panerai. It is also black dial, tritium indexes and solid caseback. Also worth mentioning that variations on the dial are known to exist - T - hyphen dials (like the pre-A) and L dials as well. Asi
This watch is magnificent with it's tritium dial , greats pics my friend !!!
Only thing I wish the PAM40 had was the display back like that found in the PAM36. I always prefer display backs over solid backs 99% of the time I bet the PAM40 would be a killer on a vintage beat up brown calf leather strap! Cheers, Anthony
Each Time I consider a Luminor as the First Panerai titanium watch, you're of course right. BUT, as for the dials, I didn't know that there were L dials, excepted killed Pam 40 by a Panerai Service Center who put a replacement dial... I believed that all the 40 came with T Dials, not L, and as for hyphen dials would you go one without fear? Me not! LOL Best. Nicolas
The PAM40 look great and stunning, nice outstanding patina on the black dial, plus titanium caseback. However, between PAM40 and PAM36...I would pick the PAM36 only because the 4 lines and see-through caseback. Thanks again for the review. Very good pics and texts. Cheers
the 40 is one of my favorite Vendome pieces...loved the pics and the history lesson... bo
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