The Panerai PAM00318 was a limited edition of 150 pieces made for the New York boutique. Recently someone posted photos of the movement inside the PAM318 on Paneristi (the OP XXIX calibre), showing what is an unfinished and lower end Unitas movement (nickel balance instead of Glucydur for example).

Even though the Unitas used by Panerai are usually decorated or have modified bridge shapes, they are still industrial looking. In other words the Panerai Unitas, even when decorated, is not a fine movement.

I do own other Panerai watches, but not the PAM318, so I don’t feel the indignation and even fury expressed by some of the owners on the forum. But given that Panerai is a luxury product with a fanatical following, I can understand the reaction. Unsurprisingly this was spawned lots of heated discussion. It’ll be interested to see how this turns out. Update: Panerai offers to swap movements.