Rainer Brand enjoys quite a following among watch aficionados who seek out independent watchmakers producing exemplary watches. Nestled almost mid-way between the watchmaking mecca of the Jura region of Switzerland and its German counterpart, Glashutte; the much more relaxed setting of Heimbuchenthal, Germany seems picture perfect for the work Rainer is doing. His watches are unique without being overstated and classic although not entirely predictable. The quality of construction, attention to detail and fit and finish are exemplary. Equally important, a Rainer Brand watch can still be acquired for something far short of a kings ransom.
The Rainer Brand Panama Classic is one of those watches that you just can't get enough of. Maybe it's the vivid blue hands and markers against the perfectly executed texture of the dial or the way the beautifully finished case seems to settle into your wrist like it was made just for you.
Based on the ETA 2892-A2, the Panama Classic displays hours, minutes, seconds and the day of the month. In my opinion, it strikes the perfect balance between timeless and modern in that it seems like it will always be appropriate while never being boring.
The case of the Panama Classic is stainless steel, 36mm in diameter and 11mm thick. Although I usually wear a much bigger watch, everything comes together well in the smaller footprint of the Panama Classic and it doesn't feel undersized at all.
If you're looking for a clean and honest watch that can be worn anywhere, it's hard to beat the Rainer Brand Panama Classic. At well under $3,000 US, it's an incredible value.
