Undoubtedly for all Panerai admirers, it is the Luminor case that in recent years comes to mind first when the brand is mentioned. The timepiece presented today is precisely such a one, and the fact that it is steel with a black dial gives it the full right to be called a "typical Panerai". The name "Rattrapante" is bestowed upon it because of the movement's function – something you would hardly guess easily just from the watch's appearance. The PAM00213 was produced for only three years – between 2005 and 2008, and during this period, according to various data, only about 4000 pieces were released onto the market.
Among collectors and enthusiasts, Panerai is known for the fact that most of the brand's watches look good with a large number of different straps and bracelets. Not all timepieces can boast this, as many of them only pair well with a limited number of color options. This Panerai is suitable for both the black crocodile strap it comes with and the rubber strap from the set, not to mention the variations of color solutions, origin, and composition of leathers available on the market for this brand. By changing the straps, you can give the watch a completely different look, while adhering to the traditional style of the brand and model – from black to yellow and all possible colors of the palette. Changing bracelets and straps is done easily, with the help of simple screwdrivers, which for the user's convenience are also included in the set.
The pure elegance of this PAM's dial is hard to dispute. The dial displays time, chronograph readings, and the date. The "213" version has Arabic numerals for "6" and "12" and indices for the remaining hour markers – a truly classic model for the brand.
The watch's luminescence is remarkable – the indices and hands are coated with Super-LumiNova, which contrasts excellently with the dial. In the dark, the illumination provided by the luminescent coating complements the color and shape of the case, thanks to which reading the indications becomes very easy and effortless.
Above the dial sits a thick 2.5 mm, slightly curved crystal with an anti-reflective coating, and the case is water-resistant to 100 m – sufficient for bathing and swimming. Of course, as befits a true Panerai, this model also features the brand's signature protected crown, which is also quite easy to use. It can be wound even when it is not released, and when it is released, you can set the time by pulling it out.
Inside the watch works the automatic movement Calibre OP XVIII, which is actually the ubiquitous Valjoux, but, as you might guess, specially modified for the brand and with some important differences – a chronograph with a double column wheel and a rattrapante function. Its features include 31 jewels, a Monometallic Glucydur® balance, 28,800 vibrations, an Incabloc® anti-shock system, a 42-hour power reserve, Geneva waves, blued screws, and brand engravings on the rotor.
