On October 4th, 2013 two legends of the watch world met for the first time face to face after a decade and a half long relationship on the internet. Angelo Bonati, the CEO and guiding father of Panerai and Alan Bloore, also known by his internet handle Hammer, one of the world’s greatest authorities on Panerai but also one of the watch universe’s most inspiring figures shook hands in Singapore just before a major Paneristi gathering of the tribe.

Bloore’s 2006 paralysis from the chest down after a Jet Skiing accident has been well documented. As has the fact that the Internet community known as Paneristi as well as the Panerai brand rallied together to show him tremendous support. In turn Bloore has been an extraordinary example of courage, determination, humor and kindness despite the most challenging twist of fate in his life.

He credits Panerai for being instrumental to his survival. He explains, “In my darkest hours, at the times where I was on the verge of giving up, it was the Paneristi community and Panerai that kept me going. It was the friendships that I made through this incredible community and the passion I have for the brand that has given me the will to go on.”

 

 

Bloore received a very special watch the “00” example of the PAM 532, a 47mm Radiomir 1940’s with the engraving “Paneristi Forever” on the back. A major feature on Bloore will appear in Revolution’s December 2013 edition.