Panerai Replica was different. The watches were big, bold, and had an air of quality. Even the boxes, made of pear wood, looked incredible. Whether it was a Luminor or a Radiomir, those simpler models in steel were, ironically, like gold dust. I was so focused on the basic Luminor models that I overlooked the brand’s true diver, the Perfect Replica Submersible.
You see, models like the Radiomir, Luminor, and Luminor Marina picked up most of the love. Ok, the Fake Radiomir Watches not as much, but the other two defined the simple looks that most people wanted out of a Panerai.
One might say that the Best Replica Luminor Submersible was the brand’s first clean sheet design, but that’s not entirely accurate. I’m no Paneristi, but I can find two watches that could claim to have a twinkle in their eyes.
I like these early Subs because of their polished cases and bezels. But what I like most is the use of tritium. This must be one of the last years for the mildly radioactive substance, but it translates into some nice aging over time.
It’s missing a proper dive strap, but I’ve never really liked the OEM rubber or velcro bits. And no moaning about wearing leather on a diver. It’s a Fake Panerai after all!