Editor’s Note: In these uncertain times there’s a noticeable shift away from big, bold statement pieces, the sort of replica watches Panerai traditionally excel at. But that’s not to say the Italian brand can’t tap into its national reputation for style and do a cracking job on smaller pieces too, as this 42mm PAM 655 proves.
Panerai is very much a ‘what you see is what you get’ sort of brand, with an identity built around being the archetypal ‘tough guy’ watch. Which was why the PAM 655 surprised us. Sure, it’s still got the iconic cushion-shaped Radiomir case, but apart from that, there’s a lightness and airiness to this replica watch that’s refreshing. Partially that’s thanks to its size; the 42mm case is far from overwhelming on the wrist, and the P.4000 movement helps make it quite slender too. But it’s also the dial – because this is the first time white has been seen on this case design. Meanwhile, even though this replica watch is less Sly and more sartorial, the Panerai hallmarks are very much in evidence: the ecru hands and luminous plots, the simple dial and of course that excellent strap. If you weren’t a PAM fan before, this replica watch could well bring you round.