Hello again to everyone who dropped in here!
This time, the narration is somewhat more modest, but perhaps it will also come in handy for someone sooner or later.
It's about PAM985.
This is not one of the 2020 models, which I usually write, it appeared back in 2019, and in general, it remains modern and in demand, but I decided to write it, because I consider it special, which can be seen from its external appearance, which is not typical for submersibles. mind, also, because I often see the mention of it as one of the most accurate reps, well, just for the reasons that I will write in detail below, I consider it very important for the brand as a whole.
Also, thanks to dadog13 , I have a sufficient number of high quality photos that can reveal this watch "in all its glory", but I, in turn, will write everything you need to know about this model if you like its images.
Fortunately, this model does not have many flaws to write about, so if possible I will add something at the end.
So PAM985 ....
Photo GEN:
Let's start about the GEN model itself:
Overall, this is a 47mm titanium submersible 1950, equipped with a p.9010, respectively in a new 1953 slim case, and released in a special edition by Mike Horn in a print run of 19 pieces.
Mike Horn has long been one of the panerai advertisers, in honor of whom limited editions are released, most often with special designs and autographed back covers such as PAM092, PAM186, PAM252, PAM307, PAM719 ...
This time the models are just a pair of PAM984 and PAM985, which differ from each other in their appearance with pale green (on PAM984) and blue (on PAM985) lume, as well as DIFFERENT engraving on the back cover (which, as it turned out, is important subsequently).
It is worth noting here that the difference in cost lies not only in these two differences and mintage, but also in the journey that was included in the purchase of this watch, similar to the situation with the PAM961, only this time not at the "Young fighter training course" but trip to the Arctic , which should justify twice the price of 40k (for 985) versus 20k (for 984).
PHOTO GEN:
And now in a little more detail:
- Yes, this is a titanium underwater vehicle that we have seen many times, but not really. The peculiarity is that its material is recycled titanium, which Panerai calls "EcoTitanium".
Of course, this is a typical fusion of marketing with ordinary titanium, because there are no practical differences, and he was even given grade 5.
Nevertheless, this fact will be useful to us below.
By the way, the strap is also made from recycled PET. How valuable it will be, of course, is up to you.
“The second important addition is that, given that this is the new slim case from the 1950s, which we already know from models in different materials, such as PAM968, PAM692 and many others, it uses a completely different Yachtmaster style bezel.
In fact, it is a one-piece titanium bezel, on the plane of which a scale, markers and numbers are engraved, despite the fact that the general surface of the background is recessed, and all elements are at the level of the starting plane.
In addition, the bottom of the engraved background has a matte finish similar to a sandblasted one.
Such bezels have never been used before, and now, in 2021, only PAM985 and PAM984 will have them, with a couple of exceptions that we will touch on.
It is important to note that this is not the same bezel that is present, for example, on the PAM1305, just engraved on top in a different way.
This is a completely different detail in all respects.
- It is also worth noting that this pair (together with PAM984, I will combine for quick speech) is the first submersible with a sandwich, albeit not in its usual form.
For a greater mass of light, the cutouts are significantly wider than, for example, the SLC radiomirs, but in general, the design with poles and dots echoes the typical modern submersible.
It is especially interesting how the sub-dial of the second hand is designed with a circle of 4 arcs, like the Lab id.
With which PANERAI connects these models with its experimentation, in the field of material and construction, although in comparison with the PAM700, the finds here are, of course, a little more banal.
Incidentally, this type of sub dial is still unique to this pair of models.
- Further, it is worth noting that, again, like Lab id, but with some differences, for the first time on a serial model the inscriptions are implemented not on the dial, but on the crystal. They are made with a metallic paint that reflects light, so it is visible or not visible on the dial, depending on the direction of incidence of the light, and also casts a shadow on the dial, projecting text onto it.
Not the most obvious solution and looks unusual, there are as many opponents as fans.
It should be noted that the inscription is applied to the back of the crystal, so there is no way to damage it.
- The last thing worth noting is the engraved caseback with various marine life and the autograph of MHorn's aika, which, as I was convinced, is really similar to the previous models.
PHOTO GEN: 719 vs 985 caseback:
Otherwise, everything is more typical, i.e. CG, midcase, has no fundamental differences from other titanium SUBMERSIBLES we are used to.
PANERAI positioned this model as a more modern take on submersibles design, which caused a mixed reaction from the public, which was not at all expected from the brand, whose positioning is based on historicity and myoitari, stories of modern vision, future, and environmental protection.
Nevertheless, panerai does have many models for different tastes, and I am glad of this variety, especially since these design decisions did not appear in mass models, but were repeated only in limited models of subsequent years, and at significantly higher prices. in models such as the PAM1108 for 190 thousand euros or the PAM1225 this year at a more modest price of 60 thousand euros.
So dominate this
there is no controversial decision in the lineup, and this can be perceived as "the highlight of this model."
This model has a surprisingly low circulation, so I'll show you some promo photos for your reference:
PHOTO GEN:
Well, I think that everyone who did not know about this model is now more or less aware of what is happening, but it is not difficult to read in more detail about gen resources, and we will go to the "dark side".
In September 2019, information about the VSF PAM984 appeared, and then, in November, the PAM985 was also released from the VS factory.
You can see the details in the model streams at the link:
[URL = "https://forum.replica-watch.info/forum/panerai/8313910-vsf-pam985"] https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...910-vsf-pam985 [/ URL]
General characteristics are such that the case is all titanium, and inside the Clone p.9000 marked p.9010, as in all VSF 47mm submersibles in the new 1950 case.
Let's see how it looks in general:
As you can see, in general, everything is done as it should be.
Now let's move on to the individual details.
Obviously, the case is made of ordinary titanium, which is practically indistinguishable from the ECO, even when compared in parallel.
Most of the details are completely familiar to us, so let's take a look at the real features of this watch and see how it was implemented in the factory.
Let's start with the inscriptions on the crystal:
- The fonts are also printed on the crystal, similar to gen, namely on the reverse side.
- They also have a mirror color, and even in those photos where it seems that they have a color, they just reflect something.
- The fonts are correct, but maybe a little thicker than gen.
- Logically, there are the same visual effects as the shadow from the seal on the dial, and the effect of "on and off" when light falls on them, or does not.
Take a look..
- Reflected:
- Is hidden:
- Partially:
Therefore, you can not be embarrassed when you see a different application of fonts in height, which may be the effect of different angles, or uneven color, which may be the result of irregularly incident light, which makes not all of the inscription "glow".
Yes, this will require some skill and understanding of the angles of incidence of light.
A few more photos to see the fonts, location, texture, projection effect on the dial in more detail:
There are no complaints about the inscriptions, on one of the aspects, with the exception of:
- Like the presence of Cyclops, the seal on the dial requires alignment of the crystal around the circumference. This is not always true for VSF. The good news is that this is clearly visible in the QC photos, but you should definitely pay attention to this, because there have already been such complaints.
But since we decided to evaluate the crystal, it is worth noting that the "fish eye effect", although it requires a slightly sharper viewing angle for evaluation, is still present, while it is completely absent in the gen:
I also read about the opinion that gen has a slightly more pronounced sapphire-shaped dome effect, for a special effect of reflection from its surface of the fonts.
Judging by the photo gen, I do not see an excessive bulge compared to ordinary underwater vehicles, and if not similar, then very similar and also has a slight bulge:
Further on the dial:
- I'm not ready to say the responsibility about the lume color, this is something that needs to be compared in parallel, but in my opinion, it is similar, in particular, the match is better than in the color version of PAM1616 and the like.
I would especially note that lume has the same grainy sandy texture, which on ordinary submersibles with glasses and a glossy raised lume has always been a weak point and a difficult point of excellence for factories.
- The texture of the dial also coincides, the proportions of the sandwich are preserved, its depth, which is important, too, can only be slightly softer cut lines at gen, although, this is already the area of macro photography.
Most of what I wrote about is reddened in the photos that I attached above, so here I will add some gen images:
Separately, I will show that the second sub-dial and the second hand are completely in order, and have no external flaws:
But there are small questions to the hands, in terms of the thickness of the strips. Unfortunately, since the days of DSN PAM023 / 29/63, this question is a little, but relevant for REP, which, however, looks quite coherent with the overall design and does not stand out much, causing damage to the eyes:
The hands themselves are of the correct shape, color, as I said, and what is expected for these years, have a flat and polished CP:
In the same photo above, you can see the depth of the sandwich, which is almost enough, but the dial plate thickness is slightly less than gen, which can give the effect of less grounding of the markers at some angles and lighting.
On the other hand, the beautiful matte texture of the dial is in place.
It is also worth noting that the luminescence is normal, and the colors of the pearl and hands are taken into account correctly:
In general, we can say that everything is fine with the dial.
There is a match between the color of the lume and the paint, the hands and the dial are also, but perhaps it is a little more azure, than cold - icy gen, but you need to remember that gen color is uniquefor this model, and the circulation is 19 pieces. Everyone has a different life and social circle, but if I see at least one gen in my life, I will be very surprised.
Yes, the date is also all right: font, depth, DW color, everything is simple, and therefore done right.
Control photo:
Next, I'll take a quick look at midcase.
It is completely similar in type to the models that I have already reviewed, PAM968 and PAM692, and has all the standard VSF disadvantages associated with different thickness gen P.9010 and clone P.9000. They are not critical, and in general, are not noticeable without parallel comparison, or a very experienced eye at the correct viewing angles.
The only thing that distinguishes the PAM985 is that it has a quick change of straps with a button, and the holes for the rods are thicker, as a result of which there is a slight difference in the shape of the lug tip from other VSFs with screw rods.
Traditional case photos:
Well, a few photos for comparison with the PAM799 and PAM692 VSF:
Separately, I will say that the CG is proportionally in order, the placement and nature of the engravings too.
On the negative side, as always,
there is no chamfer along the lengths of all arcs, as in general and in everything that I see, except, perhaps, PAM1313 in one of the parties, but this is typical for rep, and not very obvious.
The second is the lack of full polishing of the teeth of the crown. This is also a "disease", but one of those that can be cured.
Separately, I want to note what distinguishes crowns, and the vertical bevels of the inner surface of the CG window are in order, which cannot be said about many other models:
Gen / rep to visualize differences:
Now one of the hardest parts of this watch is the bezel.
In general, this is all very similar, especially from the front at right angles, but:
- The gen engraving depth is deeper, and the matte finish is more pronounced, which makes the plate look darker, and the combination of numbers with the background is more contrast.
- The rep numbers are thinner and have larger gaps, such as 3 and 0, 4 and 5.
- As expected, the corners of the marks and numbers are not so clear.
- The rep profile has the standard bezel base of older models. The new bezel has a different shape. It is more rectangular and has smaller chamfers at the top and bottom.
- The knurling around the circumference of the bezel is also different, the rep uses the old scheme, on the new one there are clearly already polished teeth surfaces.
Here are some photos showing the specifics of the bezel from different angles by ends and profile:
REP:
GEN:
And here is a separate comparison that clearly shows the differences in the nature of the knurling:
Now a little rep bezel from the front:
And here is a photo of gen from the front, which, in my opinion, shows this difference as much as possible:
I would like to highlight the pearl separately. Gen appears to be slightly recessed, convex, so that the top of the dome is flush with the edge of the glass in which it is placed, also glossy and translucent. All these conditions, for translucency, except, it seems to me, will be met: I would like to highlight the pearl separately. Gen appears to be slightly recessed, convex, so that the top of the dome is flush with the edge of the glass in which it is placed, also glossy and translucent. All these conditions, for translucency, except, it seems to me, will be met:
Next comes the caseback.
Probably, it has a diameter of 1mm larger, traditional for VSF, but, to be honest, this one has not been changed, but there is no reason to believe that it can differ from others.
All engravings are of high quality, some lack depth, and the font is slightly thinner, for example the serial number, but, as always, it is quite thin and is emphasized by bright lighting in these photos.
The numbers are also correct, both in the body and in the circulation.
Here are some photos:
Well, now, about the sad thing, the GEN / REP caseback comparison:
As you can see, the images are different, both in terms of the location of the inscriptions, and in nature, and even the drawing itself.
Alas, VSF was guided, most likely, by a promo sample from the exhibition:
Which, changed in the series, as is often the case with panerai:
And even if we take PAM984 for which this picture in the center turns out to be correct, we will see, using the example of the serial GEN, that instead of TITANIUM, EcoTitanium is indicated, and not by engraving, but on a plate:
As you can see, it is similar to VSF PAM985 and PAM984, apart from a different edition on the last one.
This is already a serious factual mistake. PANERAI conspiracy against rep factories "doesn't exist but works"
This is not to say that this is a reason to abandon this model. As you can see, it is actually very accurate, and the caseback gen is not something that anyone sees often.
However, in addition to the shape of the bezel, which one must know and die to see, this seems to be the main flaw of this watch.
Well, it's time to summarize what is not ideal in this watch:
First, specific to this model:
- The color and visual effect of the lume is not identical, although more than sufficient given the rarity of gen and the uniqueness of its color palette.
- Insufficient engraving depth of the bezel seen from the front.
- Numerals and bezel markers are too thin and spaced too far.
- Not completely correct bezel profile, from standard submersibles.
- Not quite correct knurling of the bezel circle.
- A slightly thinner top sheet of the sandwich with slightly less rounded edges.
- Incorrect engraving caseback.
Now common for VSF:
- Not completely correct proportion and shape of the case, due to the use of a thicker movement.
- CG polishing of crown teeth and edge chamfers.
- Perhaps the caseback diameter is 1mm larger.
- No reset seconds function.
What do we end up with?
Most of the shortcomings common to VSF are dictated by serious reasons, have good reasons and are not so critical, especially in this model.
The only thing I would ask for: polishing the teeth of the crown, because as seen from the front, in artificial bright light. Also CG chamfers which are not that hard to get, but when setting the time or winding, this is what the hands feel compared to the smoother GEN.
As for the specifics of a specific PAM985:
Well, let's face it, the model was not released yesterday, and the chances for some V2, with fixes, are minimal, so reasoning about the correct caseback makes little sense.
But I really hope that a quick attempt to make a PAM1225 in a 44mm case, and with some problems, factories will have to face again.
First of all, we solve the bezel issue, because in the new size, it can no longer be unified with other 47mm submersibles, and it will be possible to make it "from 0", and then the issue of profile, chamfers, knurling , and I hope, the engraving depth will be resolved ...
In the same time, the quality of the engraving may be technically limited.
Everything else is either not significant (like the edges and thickness of the sandwich), or unique to this model (like the color of the lumé), so it is not so important.
I think that in general, it turned out to be an exact replica of a unique and very rare model, which so far has almost no analogues in the model range.
It is beautiful in it's own way, and really unique and meaningful for the brand.
And also, it shows not typical for panerai, but very attractive colors.
Some good photos for memory:
Thanks to everyone who took the time to read it, I hope it was interesting.
Also, I hope that it will benefit those who are thinking about buying this model, or did not know about it at all before.
Thank you for your attention and I wish you health.
KOT.
Unfortunately, this review, which is far from the largest, became the most difficult for me, due to some difficulties with the publication, so after 2 days of attempts and corrections, the third day I had to write it again.
In view of this, I confess honestly, at first I did not have enough patience, given that this had already been done, to repeat ... But I will add it anyway, as I promised in the first lines.
So, the fact is that the beautiful blue / azure color scheme reminded me very much of another 2019 model that you saw at the end in group photos.
Of course, I'm talking about the PAM799.
This is the 2019 model.
It is a 47mm submersible with P.9010, one of 2 models, together with a pam692, made from BMG tech, and equipped with p.9010.
There is an important difference here that the PAM799 is not completely made of BMG, but only the midcase, crown (?) and CG.
Titanium caseback, which is typical for models made of exotic materials, but the bezel is made of carbotech, just like the others models made of this material entirely, except for the nuance that the markers and round bezels are of the same material as the case, without any coatings in the color of the bezel.
In addition to him, there were some other number of models with a combined case, but this is the only such submersible so far, which is quite unique to this day.
In general, it may not be so unique, but it is still quite an important model, and the thought about it arose while I was writing about the PAM985.
So some number of photos gen for a better understanding of the situation:
This time, with gen, everything is not so tricky, in general, the image of the model on the promo as a whole coincides with the serial one, even so it was not such a "loud" premiere, like, for example, PAM692, the first one made from this material (about which you can in detail read here: https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...g-about-pam692 ), but nevertheless, sharing his main problem with him:
Considering that this model appeared after the composition of the case was "fixed" on the PAM692, it looks doubly sad, however, of course, this is a warranty case if you bought them new.
Anyway, with Gen, in general, everything is clear, let's take a look at REP:
It appeared in the fall of 2019, and here, in the release thread, you can see the details:
https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...am-799-release
Everything is done quite typical, the case is completely similar to the PAM692, the bezel for any VSF carbotech, be it PAM616, PAM961 and others, with the exception of the titanium base of rounds and markers without coating.
There is also a P.9000 clone inside, marinated as P.9010, in accordance with GEN, but under the solid caseback, we cannot see this, only indirectly by the proportion of the case.
By the way, about the case, as in the case with other submersibles VSFs, the thickness is slightly higher, and the proportions are therefore slightly changed.
The bezel profile is also thicker, although it approaches gen:
There are no major mistakes here, this is not something that is easy to understand.
Some additional photos to see how the edges of the pillow are flattened and the lugs come out:
There are no complaints about the backcase, the design is ordinary, just an additional inscription about Zr - BMG, and all numbers, including the serial number, its series, annual limit and case number - everything is correct:
GEN:
REP:
The situation is more complicated with CG, and in general it is completely illogical for PAM692.
BMG material is not only heavier than titanium, slightly more shiny, and has a slightly different shade, but is also processed differently.
For this reason, gen CG is made a bit unusual, but VSF uses a standard titanium one from any other submersible:
The differences are as follows:
- On the base, the gen serif is a little more pronounced, and it's the least noticeable thing.
- The vertical edges of the CG cutout window on the GEN do not have inward bevels as on the titanium and steel CGs.
- The internal corners of the CG VSF are ideally 90 °, while the GEN uses 3-plane bracing like the old Cgs from the early 2000s.
- The transverse part of the CG, on which we can observe the butt end of the polished pin, is actually wider by gen.
- Chamfer on the outer arc CG, if there is any on GEN at all, is minimal. On rep, it clearly stands out.
Here are some photos of gen/rep that visualize this:
There are no more questions for this part. Everything is repeated for PAM692, and no modifications will help here. The only thing that would be interesting is to see if the CG from the XF PAM692 fits here. It is also not perfect, but slightly better, more precisely, better suited for this model.
Next is the bezel. There are drawbacks here, but nothing new.
the shape of the profile is not entirely correct, not thin enough and not wide enough chamfers, but from the front, the markers 15, 30, 45 seem to be too low, while the 5 minute rounds are too high relative to the gen, which is caused by the incorrect proportions of the bezel inclination from the middle to the edges.
Also, round pieces do not have gaps characteristic of any gen around the circumference to the edges of the hole in which they are placed.
In general, this is very similar to the same effect on the gen of the PAM508 bezel that we saw a few days ago in the franken 508 thread:
https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...he-508-and-243
True, fortunately, the round ones do not have a PVD coating, which could differ from the bezel, as we see on the same PAM508 / 607, or Carbotech pams.
But these are general disadvantages of VSF.
Speaking in private about the PAM799, on the whole everything is in order. Of course, if we put the GEN bezel next to it, then even from the front we will see a difference in the myrtle stripes, fonts 12, 30, 45, chamfers, and of course, This effect of recessed rounds, when at the inner edge they are below the level of the bezel, and on the outer edge they protrude higher, but this is the norm for REP PAMS today. PHOTO REP:
And a few gen views, which unfortunately cannot be seen on rep, to visualize my claims:
Immediately I will mention once again the fish-eye effect. It is, it is noticeable, gen does not have it from the word "not at all":
Well, in conclusion, about the dial:
There is something to highlight here:
- Of course, the lume is a bit of the wrong color, and it doesn't give the same reaction to light as gen does.
Lume is not as convex, translucent and dark as gen, and instead of a reaction with which it is almost pam1616 in the dark and bright blue in the sun, it is static bright blue. But handsome.
REP Photo:
GEN:
- The next point I would like to point out is the hands. Rep obviously uses brushed steel, which blends well with the titanium case and generally gives the desired effect.
At this time, gen uses some kind of coating, or paint, which gives a noticeably darker and more textured effect, especially in low light conditions:
Of course the CP is rolled and flat as you'd expect, and there are no questions about it ...
Otherwise, everything is in order, the date is good, it is just standard, in every respect:
The sub dial is also normal, the differences are only in the luma and the color of the hand, which were mentioned above:
In general, I must say that the watch turned out to be of very high quality, beautiful, their good, albeit inaccurate material.
The quality of the VSF finish is excellent and it gives 100% feel.
Most of the flaws look organic and do not stand out from the overall image and design.
At the same time, having received them simultaneously with gen in 2 hands, I'm sure you won't be confused, unfortunately. It is a very nice and beautiful watch, but it is in itself.
They could do better CG and work with lume. This problem pops up in almost all submersibles. And sooner or later, it must be solved.
However, this is a very beautiful, stylish, and by the way, light watch. And the following photos from our regular photo sponsor, dadog13 , will prove it easily:
Now, exactly the end. Thanks for attention!
This time, the narration is somewhat more modest, but perhaps it will also come in handy for someone sooner or later.
It's about PAM985.
This is not one of the 2020 models, which I usually write, it appeared back in 2019, and in general, it remains modern and in demand, but I decided to write it, because I consider it special, which can be seen from its external appearance, which is not typical for submersibles. mind, also, because I often see the mention of it as one of the most accurate reps, well, just for the reasons that I will write in detail below, I consider it very important for the brand as a whole.
Also, thanks to dadog13 , I have a sufficient number of high quality photos that can reveal this watch "in all its glory", but I, in turn, will write everything you need to know about this model if you like its images.
Fortunately, this model does not have many flaws to write about, so if possible I will add something at the end.
So PAM985 ....
Photo GEN:
Let's start about the GEN model itself:
Overall, this is a 47mm titanium submersible 1950, equipped with a p.9010, respectively in a new 1953 slim case, and released in a special edition by Mike Horn in a print run of 19 pieces.
Mike Horn has long been one of the panerai advertisers, in honor of whom limited editions are released, most often with special designs and autographed back covers such as PAM092, PAM186, PAM252, PAM307, PAM719 ...
This time the models are just a pair of PAM984 and PAM985, which differ from each other in their appearance with pale green (on PAM984) and blue (on PAM985) lume, as well as DIFFERENT engraving on the back cover (which, as it turned out, is important subsequently).
It is worth noting here that the difference in cost lies not only in these two differences and mintage, but also in the journey that was included in the purchase of this watch, similar to the situation with the PAM961, only this time not at the "Young fighter training course" but trip to the Arctic , which should justify twice the price of 40k (for 985) versus 20k (for 984).
PHOTO GEN:
And now in a little more detail:
- Yes, this is a titanium underwater vehicle that we have seen many times, but not really. The peculiarity is that its material is recycled titanium, which Panerai calls "EcoTitanium".
Of course, this is a typical fusion of marketing with ordinary titanium, because there are no practical differences, and he was even given grade 5.
Nevertheless, this fact will be useful to us below.
By the way, the strap is also made from recycled PET. How valuable it will be, of course, is up to you.
“The second important addition is that, given that this is the new slim case from the 1950s, which we already know from models in different materials, such as PAM968, PAM692 and many others, it uses a completely different Yachtmaster style bezel.
In fact, it is a one-piece titanium bezel, on the plane of which a scale, markers and numbers are engraved, despite the fact that the general surface of the background is recessed, and all elements are at the level of the starting plane.
In addition, the bottom of the engraved background has a matte finish similar to a sandblasted one.
Such bezels have never been used before, and now, in 2021, only PAM985 and PAM984 will have them, with a couple of exceptions that we will touch on.
It is important to note that this is not the same bezel that is present, for example, on the PAM1305, just engraved on top in a different way.
This is a completely different detail in all respects.
- It is also worth noting that this pair (together with PAM984, I will combine for quick speech) is the first submersible with a sandwich, albeit not in its usual form.
For a greater mass of light, the cutouts are significantly wider than, for example, the SLC radiomirs, but in general, the design with poles and dots echoes the typical modern submersible.
It is especially interesting how the sub-dial of the second hand is designed with a circle of 4 arcs, like the Lab id.
With which PANERAI connects these models with its experimentation, in the field of material and construction, although in comparison with the PAM700, the finds here are, of course, a little more banal.
Incidentally, this type of sub dial is still unique to this pair of models.
- Further, it is worth noting that, again, like Lab id, but with some differences, for the first time on a serial model the inscriptions are implemented not on the dial, but on the crystal. They are made with a metallic paint that reflects light, so it is visible or not visible on the dial, depending on the direction of incidence of the light, and also casts a shadow on the dial, projecting text onto it.
Not the most obvious solution and looks unusual, there are as many opponents as fans.
It should be noted that the inscription is applied to the back of the crystal, so there is no way to damage it.
- The last thing worth noting is the engraved caseback with various marine life and the autograph of MHorn's aika, which, as I was convinced, is really similar to the previous models.
PHOTO GEN: 719 vs 985 caseback:
Otherwise, everything is more typical, i.e. CG, midcase, has no fundamental differences from other titanium SUBMERSIBLES we are used to.
PANERAI positioned this model as a more modern take on submersibles design, which caused a mixed reaction from the public, which was not at all expected from the brand, whose positioning is based on historicity and myoitari, stories of modern vision, future, and environmental protection.
Nevertheless, panerai does have many models for different tastes, and I am glad of this variety, especially since these design decisions did not appear in mass models, but were repeated only in limited models of subsequent years, and at significantly higher prices. in models such as the PAM1108 for 190 thousand euros or the PAM1225 this year at a more modest price of 60 thousand euros.
So dominate this
there is no controversial decision in the lineup, and this can be perceived as "the highlight of this model."
This model has a surprisingly low circulation, so I'll show you some promo photos for your reference:
PHOTO GEN:
Well, I think that everyone who did not know about this model is now more or less aware of what is happening, but it is not difficult to read in more detail about gen resources, and we will go to the "dark side".
In September 2019, information about the VSF PAM984 appeared, and then, in November, the PAM985 was also released from the VS factory.
You can see the details in the model streams at the link:
[URL = "https://forum.replica-watch.info/forum/panerai/8313910-vsf-pam985"] https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...910-vsf-pam985 [/ URL]
General characteristics are such that the case is all titanium, and inside the Clone p.9000 marked p.9010, as in all VSF 47mm submersibles in the new 1950 case.
Let's see how it looks in general:
As you can see, in general, everything is done as it should be.
Now let's move on to the individual details.
Obviously, the case is made of ordinary titanium, which is practically indistinguishable from the ECO, even when compared in parallel.
Most of the details are completely familiar to us, so let's take a look at the real features of this watch and see how it was implemented in the factory.
Let's start with the inscriptions on the crystal:
- The fonts are also printed on the crystal, similar to gen, namely on the reverse side.
- They also have a mirror color, and even in those photos where it seems that they have a color, they just reflect something.
- The fonts are correct, but maybe a little thicker than gen.
- Logically, there are the same visual effects as the shadow from the seal on the dial, and the effect of "on and off" when light falls on them, or does not.
Take a look..
- Reflected:
- Is hidden:
- Partially:
Therefore, you can not be embarrassed when you see a different application of fonts in height, which may be the effect of different angles, or uneven color, which may be the result of irregularly incident light, which makes not all of the inscription "glow".
Yes, this will require some skill and understanding of the angles of incidence of light.
A few more photos to see the fonts, location, texture, projection effect on the dial in more detail:
There are no complaints about the inscriptions, on one of the aspects, with the exception of:
- Like the presence of Cyclops, the seal on the dial requires alignment of the crystal around the circumference. This is not always true for VSF. The good news is that this is clearly visible in the QC photos, but you should definitely pay attention to this, because there have already been such complaints.
But since we decided to evaluate the crystal, it is worth noting that the "fish eye effect", although it requires a slightly sharper viewing angle for evaluation, is still present, while it is completely absent in the gen:
I also read about the opinion that gen has a slightly more pronounced sapphire-shaped dome effect, for a special effect of reflection from its surface of the fonts.
Judging by the photo gen, I do not see an excessive bulge compared to ordinary underwater vehicles, and if not similar, then very similar and also has a slight bulge:
Further on the dial:
- I'm not ready to say the responsibility about the lume color, this is something that needs to be compared in parallel, but in my opinion, it is similar, in particular, the match is better than in the color version of PAM1616 and the like.
I would especially note that lume has the same grainy sandy texture, which on ordinary submersibles with glasses and a glossy raised lume has always been a weak point and a difficult point of excellence for factories.
- The texture of the dial also coincides, the proportions of the sandwich are preserved, its depth, which is important, too, can only be slightly softer cut lines at gen, although, this is already the area of macro photography.
Most of what I wrote about is reddened in the photos that I attached above, so here I will add some gen images:
Separately, I will show that the second sub-dial and the second hand are completely in order, and have no external flaws:
But there are small questions to the hands, in terms of the thickness of the strips. Unfortunately, since the days of DSN PAM023 / 29/63, this question is a little, but relevant for REP, which, however, looks quite coherent with the overall design and does not stand out much, causing damage to the eyes:
The hands themselves are of the correct shape, color, as I said, and what is expected for these years, have a flat and polished CP:
In the same photo above, you can see the depth of the sandwich, which is almost enough, but the dial plate thickness is slightly less than gen, which can give the effect of less grounding of the markers at some angles and lighting.
On the other hand, the beautiful matte texture of the dial is in place.
It is also worth noting that the luminescence is normal, and the colors of the pearl and hands are taken into account correctly:
In general, we can say that everything is fine with the dial.
There is a match between the color of the lume and the paint, the hands and the dial are also, but perhaps it is a little more azure, than cold - icy gen, but you need to remember that gen color is uniquefor this model, and the circulation is 19 pieces. Everyone has a different life and social circle, but if I see at least one gen in my life, I will be very surprised.
Yes, the date is also all right: font, depth, DW color, everything is simple, and therefore done right.
Control photo:
Next, I'll take a quick look at midcase.
It is completely similar in type to the models that I have already reviewed, PAM968 and PAM692, and has all the standard VSF disadvantages associated with different thickness gen P.9010 and clone P.9000. They are not critical, and in general, are not noticeable without parallel comparison, or a very experienced eye at the correct viewing angles.
The only thing that distinguishes the PAM985 is that it has a quick change of straps with a button, and the holes for the rods are thicker, as a result of which there is a slight difference in the shape of the lug tip from other VSFs with screw rods.
Traditional case photos:
Well, a few photos for comparison with the PAM799 and PAM692 VSF:
Separately, I will say that the CG is proportionally in order, the placement and nature of the engravings too.
On the negative side, as always,
there is no chamfer along the lengths of all arcs, as in general and in everything that I see, except, perhaps, PAM1313 in one of the parties, but this is typical for rep, and not very obvious.
The second is the lack of full polishing of the teeth of the crown. This is also a "disease", but one of those that can be cured.
Separately, I want to note what distinguishes crowns, and the vertical bevels of the inner surface of the CG window are in order, which cannot be said about many other models:
Gen / rep to visualize differences:
Now one of the hardest parts of this watch is the bezel.
In general, this is all very similar, especially from the front at right angles, but:
- The gen engraving depth is deeper, and the matte finish is more pronounced, which makes the plate look darker, and the combination of numbers with the background is more contrast.
- The rep numbers are thinner and have larger gaps, such as 3 and 0, 4 and 5.
- As expected, the corners of the marks and numbers are not so clear.
- The rep profile has the standard bezel base of older models. The new bezel has a different shape. It is more rectangular and has smaller chamfers at the top and bottom.
- The knurling around the circumference of the bezel is also different, the rep uses the old scheme, on the new one there are clearly already polished teeth surfaces.
Here are some photos showing the specifics of the bezel from different angles by ends and profile:
REP:
GEN:
And here is a separate comparison that clearly shows the differences in the nature of the knurling:
Now a little rep bezel from the front:
And here is a photo of gen from the front, which, in my opinion, shows this difference as much as possible:
I would like to highlight the pearl separately. Gen appears to be slightly recessed, convex, so that the top of the dome is flush with the edge of the glass in which it is placed, also glossy and translucent. All these conditions, for translucency, except, it seems to me, will be met: I would like to highlight the pearl separately. Gen appears to be slightly recessed, convex, so that the top of the dome is flush with the edge of the glass in which it is placed, also glossy and translucent. All these conditions, for translucency, except, it seems to me, will be met:
Next comes the caseback.
Probably, it has a diameter of 1mm larger, traditional for VSF, but, to be honest, this one has not been changed, but there is no reason to believe that it can differ from others.
All engravings are of high quality, some lack depth, and the font is slightly thinner, for example the serial number, but, as always, it is quite thin and is emphasized by bright lighting in these photos.
The numbers are also correct, both in the body and in the circulation.
Here are some photos:
Well, now, about the sad thing, the GEN / REP caseback comparison:
As you can see, the images are different, both in terms of the location of the inscriptions, and in nature, and even the drawing itself.
Alas, VSF was guided, most likely, by a promo sample from the exhibition:
Which, changed in the series, as is often the case with panerai:
And even if we take PAM984 for which this picture in the center turns out to be correct, we will see, using the example of the serial GEN, that instead of TITANIUM, EcoTitanium is indicated, and not by engraving, but on a plate:
As you can see, it is similar to VSF PAM985 and PAM984, apart from a different edition on the last one.
This is already a serious factual mistake. PANERAI conspiracy against rep factories "doesn't exist but works"
This is not to say that this is a reason to abandon this model. As you can see, it is actually very accurate, and the caseback gen is not something that anyone sees often.
However, in addition to the shape of the bezel, which one must know and die to see, this seems to be the main flaw of this watch.
Well, it's time to summarize what is not ideal in this watch:
First, specific to this model:
- The color and visual effect of the lume is not identical, although more than sufficient given the rarity of gen and the uniqueness of its color palette.
- Insufficient engraving depth of the bezel seen from the front.
- Numerals and bezel markers are too thin and spaced too far.
- Not completely correct bezel profile, from standard submersibles.
- Not quite correct knurling of the bezel circle.
- A slightly thinner top sheet of the sandwich with slightly less rounded edges.
- Incorrect engraving caseback.
Now common for VSF:
- Not completely correct proportion and shape of the case, due to the use of a thicker movement.
- CG polishing of crown teeth and edge chamfers.
- Perhaps the caseback diameter is 1mm larger.
- No reset seconds function.
What do we end up with?
Most of the shortcomings common to VSF are dictated by serious reasons, have good reasons and are not so critical, especially in this model.
The only thing I would ask for: polishing the teeth of the crown, because as seen from the front, in artificial bright light. Also CG chamfers which are not that hard to get, but when setting the time or winding, this is what the hands feel compared to the smoother GEN.
As for the specifics of a specific PAM985:
Well, let's face it, the model was not released yesterday, and the chances for some V2, with fixes, are minimal, so reasoning about the correct caseback makes little sense.
But I really hope that a quick attempt to make a PAM1225 in a 44mm case, and with some problems, factories will have to face again.
First of all, we solve the bezel issue, because in the new size, it can no longer be unified with other 47mm submersibles, and it will be possible to make it "from 0", and then the issue of profile, chamfers, knurling , and I hope, the engraving depth will be resolved ...
In the same time, the quality of the engraving may be technically limited.
Everything else is either not significant (like the edges and thickness of the sandwich), or unique to this model (like the color of the lumé), so it is not so important.
I think that in general, it turned out to be an exact replica of a unique and very rare model, which so far has almost no analogues in the model range.
It is beautiful in it's own way, and really unique and meaningful for the brand.
And also, it shows not typical for panerai, but very attractive colors.
Some good photos for memory:
Thanks to everyone who took the time to read it, I hope it was interesting.
Also, I hope that it will benefit those who are thinking about buying this model, or did not know about it at all before.
Thank you for your attention and I wish you health.
KOT.
Unfortunately, this review, which is far from the largest, became the most difficult for me, due to some difficulties with the publication, so after 2 days of attempts and corrections, the third day I had to write it again.
In view of this, I confess honestly, at first I did not have enough patience, given that this had already been done, to repeat ... But I will add it anyway, as I promised in the first lines.
So, the fact is that the beautiful blue / azure color scheme reminded me very much of another 2019 model that you saw at the end in group photos.
Of course, I'm talking about the PAM799.
This is the 2019 model.
It is a 47mm submersible with P.9010, one of 2 models, together with a pam692, made from BMG tech, and equipped with p.9010.
There is an important difference here that the PAM799 is not completely made of BMG, but only the midcase, crown (?) and CG.
Titanium caseback, which is typical for models made of exotic materials, but the bezel is made of carbotech, just like the others models made of this material entirely, except for the nuance that the markers and round bezels are of the same material as the case, without any coatings in the color of the bezel.
In addition to him, there were some other number of models with a combined case, but this is the only such submersible so far, which is quite unique to this day.
In general, it may not be so unique, but it is still quite an important model, and the thought about it arose while I was writing about the PAM985.
So some number of photos gen for a better understanding of the situation:
This time, with gen, everything is not so tricky, in general, the image of the model on the promo as a whole coincides with the serial one, even so it was not such a "loud" premiere, like, for example, PAM692, the first one made from this material (about which you can in detail read here: https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...g-about-pam692 ), but nevertheless, sharing his main problem with him:
Considering that this model appeared after the composition of the case was "fixed" on the PAM692, it looks doubly sad, however, of course, this is a warranty case if you bought them new.
Anyway, with Gen, in general, everything is clear, let's take a look at REP:
It appeared in the fall of 2019, and here, in the release thread, you can see the details:
https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...am-799-release
Everything is done quite typical, the case is completely similar to the PAM692, the bezel for any VSF carbotech, be it PAM616, PAM961 and others, with the exception of the titanium base of rounds and markers without coating.
There is also a P.9000 clone inside, marinated as P.9010, in accordance with GEN, but under the solid caseback, we cannot see this, only indirectly by the proportion of the case.
By the way, about the case, as in the case with other submersibles VSFs, the thickness is slightly higher, and the proportions are therefore slightly changed.
The bezel profile is also thicker, although it approaches gen:
There are no major mistakes here, this is not something that is easy to understand.
Some additional photos to see how the edges of the pillow are flattened and the lugs come out:
There are no complaints about the backcase, the design is ordinary, just an additional inscription about Zr - BMG, and all numbers, including the serial number, its series, annual limit and case number - everything is correct:
GEN:
REP:
The situation is more complicated with CG, and in general it is completely illogical for PAM692.
BMG material is not only heavier than titanium, slightly more shiny, and has a slightly different shade, but is also processed differently.
For this reason, gen CG is made a bit unusual, but VSF uses a standard titanium one from any other submersible:
The differences are as follows:
- On the base, the gen serif is a little more pronounced, and it's the least noticeable thing.
- The vertical edges of the CG cutout window on the GEN do not have inward bevels as on the titanium and steel CGs.
- The internal corners of the CG VSF are ideally 90 °, while the GEN uses 3-plane bracing like the old Cgs from the early 2000s.
- The transverse part of the CG, on which we can observe the butt end of the polished pin, is actually wider by gen.
- Chamfer on the outer arc CG, if there is any on GEN at all, is minimal. On rep, it clearly stands out.
Here are some photos of gen/rep that visualize this:
There are no more questions for this part. Everything is repeated for PAM692, and no modifications will help here. The only thing that would be interesting is to see if the CG from the XF PAM692 fits here. It is also not perfect, but slightly better, more precisely, better suited for this model.
Next is the bezel. There are drawbacks here, but nothing new.
the shape of the profile is not entirely correct, not thin enough and not wide enough chamfers, but from the front, the markers 15, 30, 45 seem to be too low, while the 5 minute rounds are too high relative to the gen, which is caused by the incorrect proportions of the bezel inclination from the middle to the edges.
Also, round pieces do not have gaps characteristic of any gen around the circumference to the edges of the hole in which they are placed.
In general, this is very similar to the same effect on the gen of the PAM508 bezel that we saw a few days ago in the franken 508 thread:
https://forum.replica-watch.info/for...he-508-and-243
True, fortunately, the round ones do not have a PVD coating, which could differ from the bezel, as we see on the same PAM508 / 607, or Carbotech pams.
But these are general disadvantages of VSF.
Speaking in private about the PAM799, on the whole everything is in order. Of course, if we put the GEN bezel next to it, then even from the front we will see a difference in the myrtle stripes, fonts 12, 30, 45, chamfers, and of course, This effect of recessed rounds, when at the inner edge they are below the level of the bezel, and on the outer edge they protrude higher, but this is the norm for REP PAMS today. PHOTO REP:
And a few gen views, which unfortunately cannot be seen on rep, to visualize my claims:
Immediately I will mention once again the fish-eye effect. It is, it is noticeable, gen does not have it from the word "not at all":
Well, in conclusion, about the dial:
There is something to highlight here:
- Of course, the lume is a bit of the wrong color, and it doesn't give the same reaction to light as gen does.
Lume is not as convex, translucent and dark as gen, and instead of a reaction with which it is almost pam1616 in the dark and bright blue in the sun, it is static bright blue. But handsome.
REP Photo:
GEN:
- The next point I would like to point out is the hands. Rep obviously uses brushed steel, which blends well with the titanium case and generally gives the desired effect.
At this time, gen uses some kind of coating, or paint, which gives a noticeably darker and more textured effect, especially in low light conditions:
Of course the CP is rolled and flat as you'd expect, and there are no questions about it ...
Otherwise, everything is in order, the date is good, it is just standard, in every respect:
The sub dial is also normal, the differences are only in the luma and the color of the hand, which were mentioned above:
In general, I must say that the watch turned out to be of very high quality, beautiful, their good, albeit inaccurate material.
The quality of the VSF finish is excellent and it gives 100% feel.
Most of the flaws look organic and do not stand out from the overall image and design.
At the same time, having received them simultaneously with gen in 2 hands, I'm sure you won't be confused, unfortunately. It is a very nice and beautiful watch, but it is in itself.
They could do better CG and work with lume. This problem pops up in almost all submersibles. And sooner or later, it must be solved.
However, this is a very beautiful, stylish, and by the way, light watch. And the following photos from our regular photo sponsor, dadog13 , will prove it easily:
Now, exactly the end. Thanks for attention!
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