No matter how many watches a body might have, if you’re the watch wearing type, you have a favorite, the one watch that is the fallback not matter the circumstance. This is mine.
I was looking for a watch for all seasons, and this one was the best fit. I wanted an analog, with an alarm, luminous marking, and at least 100m water resistance. It had to be suitable for my professional environments, which can be diverse and a little surreal to many folks in corporate America. Yes, it is quartz, but the only mechanical watch that makes the grade on these requirements is the Panerai 98, and I had not heard of them at the time I bought this one, could not afford them then, can’t really afford them now, and is rather too big for me (although the ease of reading that dial as the eyes age…) The chronograph and titanium were secondary considerations, but I’ve come to appreciate the titanium for the light weight and relatively slim profile it allows. The titanium and sapphire crystal have proven extremely durable despite my cavalier attitude about what activities I engage in while wearing it.
There is an option for a black or white face, and I went with the black. The dial is a little over 35mm, with the crowns and buttons not quite 40mm, 43mm lug to lug and 10mm thick. The dial markings are clearly inspired by 1940s military styles, with the triangle for 12, and the arabic numerals. The chronograph functions are conventional for an analog watch. The alarm is set with the screw-down stem at the first click out, and turned on by pulling the stem on the left side of the face out. The alarm is not as loud as some watches, but I would say louder than most, and adequate for me. I’ve had this watch for years, sent it back for a battery change once (with fast and reasonably priced service from St. Moritz), and expect to get many more years out of it.
Aesthetically, it is a little harsh and austere for dress social occasions, but that simplicity fits my needs, and carries an understated presence that works in my professional environments. On the other hand, it blends well with jeans and a polo shirt. As much as I enjoy other watches, this one is the single best, all-round watch for me.
