Panerai

The richness of Panerai’s history is only rivaled by the boldness and recognisability of their designs. In the mid 20th century, they cased Rolex movements for the use of Italian frogmen who embarked on daring underwater bombing raids. Their need for durability resulted in the instantly recognisable large cushion “Luminor” case design and iconic crown guard with lever locking mechanism. These modified Rolex 6152/1 watches were used as inspiration for the relaunch of Panerai at the end of the century during the pre-Vendome era.

Produced in 2002, Panerai released the now cult favorite reference PAM127. It was an almost exact replica of the modified Rolex 6152/1 which effectively relaunched the brand, ticking all the boxes with a domed sapphire crystal, gold hands, sandwich dial and slimmer case. Even the OP XI Calibre, derived from an ETA base movement, was redesigned to look like the original Rolex Calibre 618. 

Nicknamed “Fiddy” due to the “1950” (Nineteen-Fiddy) designation on the dial of the watch, this watch not only represents everything that collectors love about Panerai today, it is an exact recreation of the watch which modern Panerai’s brand identity is based off. Presented in extremely attractive, barely worn condition, this opportunity is unmissable for not just the Paneristi, but for all who can appreciate rich history and faithful execution.