Panerai PAM98 Radiomir GMT/Alarm: A Collector's Two-Decade Quest

pfang56 · 2023-09-01T20:14:18Z

Discover Peter's two-decade journey to acquire the Panerai PAM98 Radiomir GMT/Alarm. Explore its unique complications and design appeal.

pfang56

WPS member · Officine Panerai forum

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Peter (pfang56) shares the culmination of a two-decade horological quest, finally acquiring the Panerai PAM98 Radiomir GMT/Alarm. His post delves into the specific design elements and practical complications that kept this particular reference on his wishlist for so long, offering a personal reflection on collecting journeys. This article explores why certain watches resonate deeply with collectors over extended periods.

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Well, I don't know if it was due to being obsessed, inebriated, or just plain random (or all of the above) but I recently purchased a piece which was always on my lifelong wishlist, that I never pulled the trigger on when I started collecting Panerai over 20 years ago.

It's the PAM98 - the 42mm Radiomir GMT/Alarm. I still remember the day I saw this piece on P.com - and was mesmerized by the multiple complications on this timepiece - having both Alarm and GMT was incredibly practical for me as I traveled quite a bit. But there was always the harmony of the design - those two crowns on the side, the flat case, the wire lugs, the railroad track, the seconds hand, the date, and of course those Panerai Numerals (with the associated lume) that made this incredibly special. I was also a big fan of deployants and the particular Alligator strap that felt so robust!

Anyway, after 20 years, here I am wearing this piece. Certainly thinking of the relative nature of this piece in the context of my much more expensive collection - and still being very happy and excited about strapping this on my wrist. Kudos to Panerai for getting this right so many many many decades ago!!!

Anybody else have one of these?

Cheers
Peter

Key Points from the Discussion

The PAM98, despite its unique complications, is considered by some to be less historically aligned with traditional Panerai aesthetics, yet it holds a strong appeal for its distinctive design.
The allure of certain Panerai models from the mid-2000s, such as the PAM000 and PAM372, also involved a prolonged acquisition process for some collectors, highlighting a common experience of delayed gratification in watch collecting.
The placement of the logo on some Panerai models, like the PAM000, has been noted as an aesthetic point of contention by collectors who later discovered earlier, more integrated designs.
Complicated Radiomir pieces, including the Zerograph and Split Second, represent a distinct segment of Panerai's offerings that appeal to collectors interested in advanced horological functions.
The choice of strap is a significant aspect of Panerai ownership, with collectors often considering new strap combinations immediately after acquiring a piece.
The introduction of display backs on models like the PAM112 marked a notable era for modern Panerai, attracting collectors who appreciate viewing the movement.

The Discussion

sergio

Sep 1, 2023

...but I understand what you're saying. I'm glad you finally can enjoy your "dream". Keep enjoying it too much!!!!

pfang56

Sep 1, 2023

Old dreams can come true! Cheers Peter

pfang56

Sep 1, 2023

Very much - definitely a special level of satisfaction. Cheers Peter

pfang56

Sep 1, 2023

And that red / burgundy strap is killer. As with all PAM purchases the key will always be what strap comes next! Maybe time to come back to the dark side Cheers Peter

pfang56

Sep 1, 2023

And I know there have been many homages of the pre-V period but it's nice to see they did a good job with this denovo style! Cheers Peter

pfang56

Sep 1, 2023

Love it brother What color is your strap? Peter

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Panerai PAM98 Radiomir GMT/Alarm: A Collector's Two-Decade Quest

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