For those unfamiliar with Panzera, it is an Australian watch brand established in 2009 that specialises in affordable mechanical timepieces and writing tools. Their current collection includes the Flieger, the Breuer and the Aquamarine which I will be discussing here in detail.
Case
While affordable, the watch features an attractive 45mm cushion-shaped case with a screw-down crown. The case is crafted from 316L surgical grade stainless steel which is the industry standard, no compromise here despite the modest price tag. Panzera opted for a double anti-reflective coated sapphire crystal as opposed to the more cost effective mineral crystal used by many of their competitors at this price point. Cases come in 3 finish variants: high polished steel, matte IP black and high polished IP rose gold.
Dial
The midnight black dial appears flat at first glance but flirts with the light well, producing a subtle sunburst effect. The day and date indications located at 3 o’clock gently fades into the background, providing the information when desired without cluttering up the dial. The day can interestingly be displayed in either English or Spanish. Strong contrast of the white luminescent hands and hour markers against the black dial guarantees good legibility, even in the dark. Dial design evidently took inspiration from classic pilot watches, which is generally evergreen and full of character.
Movement
The engine that beats within the Aquamarine 45 is the highly reliable and robust Japanese Miyota 820A Automatic Mechanical movement featuring 21 jewels, beating at 3 Hz.
Concluding Thoughts
For a 45mm timepiece, one might expect it to wear slightly oversized. However it sits very nicely on the wrist, relatively better than other timepieces of the same size that might come to mind. The strap options such as rubber or leather feels and looks great. Its Miyota calibre is also easily serviceable without breaking the bank. It demonstrates good value for money and is a strong candidate for anyone looking for their first mechanical watch, or a casual weekend timepiece.
The Panzera Aquamarine 45 with black italian rubber, white stitch, pin buckle carries a retail price tag of:
SGD$969 (High Polished IP Rose Gold)
SGD$909 (Matte Black IP Finish)
SGD$869 (High Polished Steel Finish)
Option for genuine calf leather with croc pattern, pin buckle, non tapered at an additional SGD30.00.
Available at de Time, The Watch Boutique, Clarke Quay Central #01-37
Technical Details:
Case:
45mm 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel
Screw Down Case Back
Screw In Double Crown
Dial:
Midnight Black
Luminous Hands
Luminous Hour Markers
Glass:
Flat Sapphire Crystal with Double Anti-Reflective Coating
Movement:
Japanese Miyota 820A Automatic Mechanical Movement
40 Hours Power Reserve
Day Function (English & Spanish)
Date Function
21 Jewels
21,600bpm
Water Resistance:
200m/20ATM
Strap:
Black Rubber Strap with White Stitch (24-22mm)
Black Soft Genuine Calf Leather Strap (24-24mm)
Pin Buckle
