Officine Panerai

I noticed the base Panerai models have this. Im not sure if it’s because the crystal is of lower quality compared to a 1950’s case offering but I love it. Some say it’s because it’s domed but I have yet to get a true answer. If anyone knows comment below!...  

enjoy!

This effect on the base Panerai model sapphire crystals is due to them being curved on the outside and flat on the inside. The next models in the range equipped with the p.5000 8 days movements have the double curved sapphire crystals therefore no distort... 

The single curved sapphire is cheaper hence being installed in a base models. The cool distortions come as a bonus of owning a base PAM, which is still the quintessence of less is more for many.

Modern Rolex's crystals are flat, but it doesn't mean they are better or worse, or cheaper. In most cases they are made of synthetic sapphire which is very hard to scratch. Omega makes some of the best double domed sapphire crystals for some of the vintag...  

They all look good but I love the magnification or distortion way more than say a 1312 which is flat and clear.