Thoughts on Le Cartel's PAM088, 228, 229, 104, 156?

[takashi]

Well... been browsing the net and found these new PAMs. They seems to be refreshes, if not new models.

What are your thoughts? I think they have tweaked the CGs, cyclops and DW. It looks pretty good to me.

 

[daytona4me]

still made the dials wrong on the 088 and 156, have not looked at the 228 or 229

 

[hooligan]

Just looking at the 088, DSN's dial is much better, CG and crown are about even, the Cartel watch datewheel might be a shade better, though.

 

[takashi]

Any comments on Cyclops/crystal?

That cyclop looks to have very small/thin border unlike DSN. Just like the gen.

 

[hooligan]

Yeah, the cyclops might be better than DSN's. I'm not an expert on the contemporary stuff, though, Taka.

 

[RedSoxMan]

Also note, when comparing "Cartel" to DSN: with DSN you get a superior lume.

 

[hooligan]

Yes, the better lume and the correct color/texture of the seconds sub-dial of DSN's dial is what makes it better than the dial on the "Cartel watch".

 

[takashi]

I have to agree that DSN uses superior stuff for the lume. I have that 089 and I can confirm that it's as good as Superluminova C3, if not it IS the real thing.

Anyway slightly out of topic, just a wishful thought on DSN Ti model, the engraving on the caseback on Ti model can be further improved. I would say that it's more like an etching instead of engraving but nevertheless, you are getting a lot for your money by going DSN route. This engraving is NOT an issue on his SS/PVD case.

Wish that DSN uses better crystal That cyclop on le cartel's looks really good.

 

[pdnb]

sorry for the newb question, but is cartel = trusty time?
thanks.. i have been looking for a gmt and your review on the 89 has me debating between dsn's 88 or 89. i also have a 183. Thanks

 

[takashi]

That is a pretty clear cut choice for me. I would love to go for Ti case (I love it light, comfortable on the wrist). The 088 has SS case whereas the 089 is Titanium. On top of that, not many Panerai comes with grey dial. So definitely it's a unique piece.

Cartel = Jandrew/Trustytime/Perfect Clones. Some said it includes a few other dealers listed but so far the 2 have been the most influential.

 

[Tommy Tom]

They come with a hefty price tag don't you think :shock:

 

[takashi]

I was about to bring up this topic too...

I agree... Price is just ridiculous.

 

[hooligan]

They come with a hefty price tag don't you think :shock:

Did you *expect* to find a bargain with the Cartel? :lol: :wink: :evil:

 

[babola]

They're so-so IMO, some bits are better some worse from the previous models, these are coming from that "second" PAM rep factory, not the mainstream one.

And I agree on pricing, just a tad rich for my taste.

babola