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Guideu/Kevin O'Brien·10mo ago

How to spot a good super clone - my checklist

After buying 5 super clones over the past year, here's my checklist for spotting a good one. Case: Check the brushing. It should be even and directional. The polished bevels should be consistent. The weight should feel right - not too light, not artificially heavy. Dial: Check the printing under a loupe. It should be sharp, not fuzzy. The lume should be evenly applied. The date window should be properly framed. Movement: Ask for a timegrapher reading. It should be within +/- 10s/day. The beat error should be under 0.5ms. Bracelet: Check the links. They should be solid, not hollow. The clasp should snap shut firmly. The articulation should be smooth. If all of these check out, you've got a good one. If any fail, walk away.

How to spot a good super clone - my checklist
11 12 comments 96 views

12 Comments

u/Greg Martinez·10mo ago

What was the beat error on yours? Mine came in at 0.2ms which I thought was excellent for this price point.

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u/Emma Davis·10mo ago

I usually only buy vintage, but you make a compelling case. The value equation is hard to argue with.

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u/Will Anderson·10mo ago

I was worried about being called out too. Never happened. These are that good.

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u/Hank Williams·10mo ago

Beautiful piece. Did you get the Swiss movement option or the standard? Trying to decide if the upgrade is worth it.

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u/Tommy Chen·10mo ago

The chrono pushers on mine are buttery smooth. People are always surprised when I tell them.

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u/Alex Rivera·10mo ago

My wife got me one for our anniversary. Same reaction - I was speechless. These make incredible gifts.

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What was the beat error on yours? Mine came in at 0.2ms which I thought was excellent for this price point.

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u/Steve Wright·10mo ago

The fluted bezel on the Datejust is what got me. It catches light like nothing else.

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u/Sam Taylor·10mo ago

Retired as well. The research process was half the fun. Enjoy the watch!

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u/Pete Nelson·10mo ago

I compared mine side by side with a genuine at a watch meetup. Nobody could tell.

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u/Dan Wilson·10mo ago

Nice! What strap are you running on it? I find the bracelet a bit heavy for summer.

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u/David Kim·10mo ago

Love seeing more women in the hobby. The 36mm is perfect on smaller wrists.

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u/Chris Morgan·10mo ago

I was skeptical about super clones for years. Posts like this finally convinced me to try one. Ordered last week.

4