As you likely know by now, most of the early PAM featured movements and cases made by Rolex; and this This Marina Militare ref. 6152 is no exception. Beginning with the 3646 in the late 30s, Panerai sourced Rolex movements for use in their diving panerai radiomir watch, as they produced the most reliable water-resistant movement of the era. Panerai innovations, such as the locking crown lever (which allowed the watch to descend to 200m), made their appearance on the 6152 models by the mid ‘50s, including this one.But, what makes this particular 6152 so, so good is the Officine Panerai Brevattato" signed exhibition case back. Displaying the M. Cal. 15 jewel Rolex movement in all its glory, this watch is even cooler than traditional Rolex powered PAMs because you can actually prove naysayers wrong right on the spot! This particular feature increases the likelihood that the panerai radiomir watch was commissioned by or gifted to a high-ranking Naval official, long retired from the dangers (and pressures) of underwater missions.
If youre anything like us, few watches conjure up such great imagery as this Rolex movement-touting vintage Panerai about to grace the auction block. This isnt the first time weve been smitten by a Rolex sourced Panerai, but this Marina Militare ref. 6152 circa 1950 is really something special. This military diver has a few cool features and a curious history, perfect for pedantic conversations by the fireplace. Officially providing impeccable style for the Italian Navy since 1938, Panerai began by producing various nautical, signal, and measurement instruments for tactical use (see originals here and modern homage here) in WWI. Apparently they did this well enough to prompt small orders for Naval diving panerai radiomir watch in the 30s, which became standard issue pieces, featured in countless missions up to WWII and beyond.
