The Panerai Luminor 1950 8 Days GMT a.k.a. PAM 233 is one of the most robust Panerais out there and one of the most beautiful ones. This particular watch belongs to a close friend and watchlifestyler that is often traveling around the Americas; therefore, the need for a long lasting power-reserve and the ability to read time in two time zones is the reason why he purchased this lovely reference.

While the case on the PAM 233 only measures 44 mm in width, it wears more like a 46 or 48 mm due to its thickness and super domed crystal. This gorgeous Panerai is fitted with the hand-wound Panerai in-house calibre P.2002 with a power-reserve of eight days. The dial, just like on other Panerais, has a simple and clean design and it includes a linear power-reserve indicator, a second time zone, a 24-hour indicator and a date aperture at 3 o'clock.

This watch comes originally fitted with a black calf strap, a second interchangeable rubber strap and a large size Panerai steel buckle; however, in this case, the strap on the watch is a Swedish Gustav Ammo by Greg Stevens Designs and a Piotr buckle. The ability to swap straps is one of the most appealing attributes of a Panerai watch and the only way one can obtain that ultra rugged vintage look while wearing one.

The rugged look of the Swedish Gustav strap can only be matched by a Rob Montana strap. In order to facilitate the strap change process, several years ago Panerai added a push-piece quick-release mechanism to the lugs so that the owners would be able to switch straps in less than one minute. Long gone are the days of spending five minutes on a strap change and often scratching the sides of the case with the screwdriver. Thank you Panerai.

As with other Panerais, the super luminova on the dial is very bright and long lasting. If you like to tell time at night, you won't have a problem wearing this watch.

This PAM 233 is a perfect fit for watchlifestylers that like outdoor adventures. So next time you embark on that hunting trip make sure this timepiece is tucked under the cuff of that Barbour jacket that you've been wearing since 1994.  

Sticker Price $15,900 USD. For more info click here.