panerai 112 fake | real vs fake Panerai dial

The allure of a Panerai, with its bold Italian design and rich history, is undeniable. The Luminor 112, a manual-winding, minimalist model, holds a special appeal for purists. However, this popularity makes it a prime target for counterfeiters. This article delves into the frustrating reality of encountering a Panerai 112 fake, using a recent real-life example as a jumping-off point, and provides a comprehensive guide to identifying counterfeit Panerai watches, with a focus on the Luminor models.

The Case of the Unregistering 112: A Real-World Scenario

Imagine the excitement of acquiring a coveted Panerai 112. The thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of the purchase… only to be dashed by the nagging suspicion that something isn't quite right. This is precisely what happened to one unfortunate buyer. After purchasing a Panerai 112 from a shop in Montreal, the buyer attempted to register the watch. To his dismay, it wouldn't register on the official Panerai website.

Adding to the confusion, the seller, seemingly confident in the watch's authenticity, stood by the claim that it was a genuine Panerai. The shop even stated they were unsure why it wouldn't register. Faced with this uncertainty, the buyer took the prudent step of requesting a reversal of the deal. To the seller's credit, they agreed and further decided to submit the watch to Panerai for official authentication.

This situation highlights the complexities and anxieties surrounding counterfeit watches. Even seemingly reputable sources can be unknowingly duped, and the sophistication of modern fakes makes detection increasingly challenging. This article will equip you with the knowledge to avoid becoming another victim of the counterfeit market.

Why the Panerai 112 is a Target

The Panerai 112, like many Panerai models, is a popular choice for counterfeiters for several reasons:

* Simplicity of Design: Compared to chronographs or watches with multiple complications, the 112's minimalist design (hours, minutes, small seconds on some variations) is easier to replicate.

* Iconic Look: The distinctive Luminor case, sandwich dial, and robust construction are instantly recognizable, making it a desirable target for those seeking a status symbol.

* High Resale Value (of genuine models): The demand for genuine Panerai watches creates a profitable market for counterfeiters.

How to Identify a Fake Panerai: A Deep Dive

Detecting a fake Panerai requires a keen eye and a thorough understanding of the brand's characteristics. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to look for:

1. The Dial: The Devil is in the Details (Real vs Fake Panerai Dial)

The dial is often the most revealing aspect of a counterfeit Panerai. Pay close attention to these elements:

* Font and Printing Quality: Genuine Panerai dials feature crisp, clear, and perfectly aligned fonts. Counterfeits often have blurry, uneven, or poorly spaced lettering. Look closely at the "PANERAI," "LUMINOR," and "MARINA MILITARE" (if applicable) markings.

* Sandwich Dial Construction: Many Panerai models, including the 112, utilize a "sandwich dial" construction. This involves two superimposed discs: the top disc with cut-out numerals and indices, and the bottom disc coated with luminous material. Examine the edges of the cut-outs. On genuine watches, the edges are clean and sharp, with a consistent layer of luminous material visible underneath. Counterfeits often have rough, uneven edges and inconsistent or poorly applied lume.

* Luminous Material (Lume): Panerai uses high-quality Super-LumiNova for its luminous material. The lume should glow brightly and evenly in the dark, with a consistent color. Counterfeit lume often appears weak, uneven, and may have a greenish or yellowish tint. Also, check how long the lume lasts. Genuine Panerai lume will glow for a significant amount of time after being exposed to light.

* Hand Quality and Finish: The hands of a genuine Panerai are meticulously crafted and finished. They should be perfectly straight, with clean edges and a smooth, polished surface. Counterfeit hands often have imperfections, such as rough edges, uneven surfaces, or poorly applied lume.

* Sub-Dial Placement and Size (If Applicable): If the model features a sub-dial (e.g., small seconds), check its placement and size relative to the rest of the dial. Counterfeits often have incorrectly positioned or proportioned sub-dials.

* Paint Quality: The paint used on the dial should be smooth, even, and free of imperfections. Look for signs of bubbling, chipping, or uneven texture.

2. The Case: A Solid Foundationpanerai 112 fake

The Luminor case is a defining feature of Panerai watches. Examine it carefully for these telltale signs: