Felix Scholz
As the days tick by and SIHH 2017 looms, the pre-releases are coming thick and fast. One of the brands that never fails to surprise (hey Carbotech) and delight (hey Firenze) us is Panerai, and this year it looks like they're keeping to form with two new takes on the classic Radiomir case.Left: PAM00685; right PAM00687Inspired by historic models from the ’30s, the most distinctive feature of these 47mm steel models is the twelve-sided bezel holding the plexiglass crystal (a nice vintage feature in and of itself) in place. This bezel, which bears more than a passing resemblance to Panerai's typical casebacks, is engraved with ‘Officine Panerai Brevettato’, which?refers to the patented luminous material used by the brand back in the day.The first of these two models, PAM00685, comes with a standard black sandwich-style dial.PAM00685The second is a little more special, its?gradated brown dial mimicking the tropical, radium-faded look of highly-prized vintage models. It looks great in the photography we’ve seen?and we can't wait to witness?it IRL in January.PAM00687Both watches are powered by Panerai's P.3000 calibre, with three days’ power reserve, and come on an untreated brown leather strap with contrasting stitching.Panerai Radiomir 3 Days Acciaio (PAM 00685 and PAM00687) Australian pricing and availabilityPAM00685 and PAM00687, each limited to 1000 pieces, $32,200
11.12.16