Today I had the chance to see another yet unknown Ref. 3646 / Type C “Kampfschwimmer” watch surfacing into the Vintage Panerai world. Auctioneer Dr. Crott kindly informed me that they just had a new arrival for their upcoming 86th auction which will be held in november 2012.

In its actual conditions, this watch is in my opinion a “raw diamond”. It is untouched, stored away for decades which let it appear today in its original conditions. It needs doubtless a cure at a good watchmaker with a heart for historic treasures – he can bring back the power and functionality on this fantastic piece for the future years.  However, the watch was running during my observation. As many other watches too, it has the tubular shaped “Oyster Patent” crown instead of the onion shaped “Brevet +” crown.

Features of the watch:
Reference: 3646 / Type C
Dial: “Kampfschwimmer”  (sandwich, anonymous)
Case number: 1010351
Movement: Rolex Cal. 618 / Type 1

The original strap has not “survived” but we know this has happened on most of the sewn-onto-the-case straps of Ref. 3646. It should be easy for the new owner to find a strap to his personal taste, so there are many options for this kind of  “personalization” for the future owner.

Once again, this “new surfaced” Ref. 3646 watch is matching our Type C criteria in all details, rising the number of Ref. 3646 / Type C database entries close to 50 watches…! In relationship with the 7 digit case number (the watch is inbetween the number group 1010091 – 1010374) is the Rolex SA embossing on the inner caseback, which is a typical feature of Ref. 3646 / Type C watches. Matching with the inner caseback engravings is the Cal. 618 / Type 1 movement from Rolex with its typical engravings on the center bridge. The outer caseback bears no engraving. The steel hands have kept their blueish color and the luminous material is still nearly complete!

You can also read and see more about the different versions of Ref. 3646 watches in our 2nd book “Vintage Panerai – The References”. [Volker Wiegmann]