Rolex Deepsea (ref 116660) vs Panerai Luminor 1950 (PAM233)

If you're looking for a large stainless steel dive watch priced under $15,000 US, you have most likely come across the 44mm Rolex Deepsea and the Panerai Luminor 8 Days GMT, also with a 44 mm case. These timepieces are similar in size and material, but differ in functionality and aesthetic.

The Deepsea features a self-winding 3135 movement manufactured by Rolex with a power reserve of 48 hours. The PAM233 is equipped with a manually-wound P.2002 movement manufactured by Panerai. It has a power reserve of 8 days, though it can go 10 days without being wound according to the forums.

Rolex Deepsea vs Panerai PAM 233 Case Comparison

As the name indicates, the PAM233 features a GMT hand that allows the wearer to set the time in two locations at once. It has a date aperture at 3 o'clock, a power reserve display above 6 o'clock and a sub-dial at 9 o'clock with the seconds and am/pm. The case features the crown protector that this model is known for and a domed crystal visible in the photo above. The depth rating for this model is 100 meters.

The Deepsea also features a domed crystal and a date aperture at 3 o'clock. With a graduated 60-minute unidirectional Cerachrom bezel, it allows divers to monitor their time underwater. The depth rating on this model is 3,9000 meters - a significant difference for those looking to use the dive watch for its intended purpose.

Rolex Deepsea vs Panerai PAM233 Side by Side

The PAM233 comes with a calf leather strap (shown in photo with a Panerai brown/beige calf leather strap) while the Deepsea features a stainless steel Oyster bracelet. The Deepsea adheres to Rolex's classic dive watch aesthetic while the Luminor has more of an old-world flair in its design. The Luminor 1950 case in unique with its brushed and polished steel and the domed crystal.

The Rolex Deepsea retails for approximately $11,831 US and the Panerai Luminor 1950 8 Days GMT goes for $12,300. With a difference of only about $500, the purchase decision would come down to the aesthetic and functionality. The Deepsea represents the modern dive watch with all the bells and whistles and the PAM233 offers a vintage look and feel in a contemporary timepiece.

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