With animosity toward the internet waning, watch brands are starting to change their attitude toward fans on the net, as well as sales there (here).
Panerai has just released a limited edition watch (the PAM 360) in honor of the unofficial Panerai fan forum site
Paneristi.com. The online community of brand lovers has been invaluable for Panerai, and this little nod in their direction is a great message to active brand fans everywhere. Specifically, the watch is said to be in honor of the website's 10th anniversary. The limited edition of 300 watches will be sold via the site by moderators, to active Paneristi members only. There is likely to be an element of seniority and activity involved in the selection - so don't plan on joining now expecting one of the watches.
The PAM 360 starts of course with custom "Paneristi.com" engravings on the caseback. The steel case is DLC black coated, with a lovely amount of contrasting luminant. The dial is very simple - the absolute most minimalist a Panerai watch can get. The light tan leather strap looks attractive against the black case. Price is up there at about $6,700 each - but it barely matters for Panerai's more elite group of super fans.
Ariel Adams publishes the luxury
watch reviews site aBlogtoRead.com.
