TK471 said:
This has been a very hot topic of late. Didn't I read on this board that the fonts of the 005 dial have not been consistent throughout all model years? I'm referring here to the genuine Panerai 005.
I think someone said that because of the disparity between the dial fonts that it was impossible to hold up just one example as representing fonts and other dial details.
Can anyone confirm or deny this?
I'll try to clear some confusion up (or maybe just add to the confusion? LOL)
Yes, I can confirm that there several dial versions for the gen PAM0005. It is confirmed that there are atleast 2 dial variants for the PAM0005.
From what I have read, the
dial variations have to do with the logo and the indicies/numerals NOT the font.
I believe the font has stayed consistant.
The early PAM0005 supposidly used dials left over from the PAM195 project. So low serial numbered 005s have the same dial as the PAM 195.
The logo on the early PAM0005 & PAM195 had longer arrows. The arrow on the "O" and the arrow on the "P" extended further.
The indices are supposidly different too. The indicies are supposidly a bit fatter and shorter on certain dials. But I believe its just the "3" thats different. Its a little shorter on top on the newer dials. Its hard for me to tell if the numerals/indicies are thicker/fatter.
If you are not confused yet, the early 5s and 195s said "L swiss L" at the bottom of the dial and the newer dials now say "L swiss made L."
If you want to buy or build "the ultimate" PAM0005, my opinion would be to model it off of a PAM195 to avoid any confusion.
A bit more info on the PAM0005, its the entry line model, lower in price than a 111. The PAM0005 has a solid back (not crystal like the 111) and the movement is just a basic ETA/Unitas 6497, no special bridges or finish. Dial is sold, not sandwich. PAM005 may also not be COSC while 111, but not sure on that fact.
Pics of Gen Pam005:
1st generation, using PAM195 dial:
2nd generation dial. Note different logo shape & "L swiss made L":
Gen Case back:
and here is a pic of a gen PAM195