panerai 243 stückzahl | Panerai

The Panerai PAM 00243, a reference instantly recognizable to watch enthusiasts, and particularly those with a penchant for robust diving timepieces, has earned a legendary status. Its imposing presence, coupled with Panerai's rich history and association with the Italian Navy, makes it a highly sought-after model. This article, focusing on the "Panerai 243 Stückzahl" – the specific number produced – will delve into the details of this iconic watch, its design, its place within the Panerai lineage, its collectibility, and where you might find one today. We'll explore its key features, dissect its price range, and answer frequently asked questions about this remarkable piece.

Understanding the "Stückzahl": Limited Production, Lasting Appeal

The German word "Stückzahl" translates to "piece count" or "production number." When discussing the Panerai PAM 00243 Stückzahl, we're referring to the total number of these watches that were manufactured. While Panerai often produces watches in limited editions, the PAM 243 wasn't strictly billed as a limited edition in the same way as some of their other offerings. However, it *was* produced for a specific period, making its availability finite. This inherent scarcity contributes significantly to its collectibility and value on the secondary market.

While the exact production figures are not always publicly disclosed by Panerai, the PAM 00243 was produced in relatively low quantities compared to some of their more mainstream models. This limited production run, combined with its desirability, has solidified its place as a highly sought-after piece. Finding a well-maintained PAM 243 requires patience and diligence, as the "Stückzahl" ensures that demand often outstrips supply.

The Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 PAM 00243: A Design Masterpiece

The PAM 00243 is a member of the Luminor Submersible family, a line of watches specifically designed for underwater exploration and built for extreme conditions. It embodies Panerai's design philosophy of functionality, legibility, and robust construction. Its key features include:

* Case: The watch boasts a substantial 44mm stainless steel case. This size, while not small, provides excellent wrist presence without being overly cumbersome. The case is characterized by its distinct Luminor crown-protecting device, a signature Panerai feature that ensures water resistance and protects the crown from accidental damage. The case is brushed, providing a tool-like aesthetic that reinforces its rugged nature.

* Bezel: The unidirectional rotating bezel is a critical feature for divers, allowing them to track elapsed time underwater. The bezel on the PAM 00243 is typically made of stainless steel and features prominent markings for easy reading, even in low-light conditions. Its ratcheting mechanism provides secure and precise operation.

* Dial: The dial is a paragon of legibility. It features large, luminous hour markers and hands, coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent visibility in the dark. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with a small seconds sub-dial at the 9 o'clock position and the date window at 3 o'clock. The use of a matte black dial further enhances readability by minimizing glare.

* Movement: The PAM 00243 is powered by the Panerai OP III calibre, a robust and reliable automatic movement based on the Valjoux 7750. This movement is known for its accuracy and durability, making it a perfect fit for a watch designed for demanding environments.

* Crystal: A thick sapphire crystal protects the dial, offering exceptional scratch resistance and clarity. Sapphire crystal is a standard feature on high-end watches due to its superior durability compared to mineral crystal or acrylic.

* Water Resistance: The PAM 00243 is water-resistant to 1000 meters (100 bar), making it a true diving watch capable of withstanding extreme pressures. This depth rating is a testament to Panerai's commitment to building watches that can perform in the most challenging conditions.

* Strap: The watch typically comes with a durable rubber strap designed for underwater use. The strap is often black and features the Panerai logo. Some models may also include a second strap, such as a leather strap, for more versatile wear.

The Luminor 1950 Submersible Lineage: A Legacy of Diving Heritagepanerai 243 stückzahl

The Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 PAM 00243 is part of a rich lineage of diving watches that can be traced back to Panerai's historical ties with the Italian Navy. In the early 20th century, Panerai supplied the Italian Navy with instruments and diving watches, developing innovative solutions to meet their specific needs. The Luminor Submersible line builds upon this heritage, incorporating the same principles of functionality, legibility, and robustness that characterized Panerai's earlier military watches.