Review Archives - Page 15 of 16 - How To Find Best Replica Watch To Buy

Reviewing The Erroyl Regent Nero

Editor’s Note: In our penultimate post on Australian replica watch brands, we take a look at Erroyl’s second replica watch, and discover that this one definitely isn’t suffering from second album syndrome.Breitling Replica

The first thing you notice about the Regent are its similarities to mid-century sports replica watches with ‘panda’ dials, particularly the early dual-subdial Heuer Autavia. Of course, the Erroyl is no chronograph, the subdials instead displaying day and month, with the date on show at six. It’s a wonderfully classic design, its tuxedo styling cues instantly making this replica watch feel special on the wrist. With its highly polished 42mm case and loads of guilloché detailing, the Regent belies its sub-$600 price tag, punching well above its weight in almost every respect.

Around this time last year, Erroyl had only just launched its first model – the Heritage. In the subsequent 12 months, the fledgling brand has done very well in combining quality components and finishing with thoughtful design and wallet-friendly price. Its latest model is the Erroyl Regent, which has the more difficult task of meeting and exceeding those expectations that were forged with the Heritage.

Hidden behind the upmarket caseback is the Japanese Miyota 9122 triple-date automatic movement with 40-hour power reserve. It’s one of the higher-end mechanisms from the Citizen-owned Miyota, and although not the quietest of engines, is a good choice to provide reliable and accurate timekeeping while keeping costs low – all important considerations for a new replica watch maker.

he crown is sturdy and well designed, and there’s also a pusher at two o’clock to advance the month display; though this adds interest to the design, it can cause some minor annoyance if pressed accidentally.

The fully polished surgical-grade 316L stainless steel case has a depth of 12mm, features tapered lugs, and is water resistant to 100m. With its rounded sides giving the entire piece a full-bodied robustness, the case is unusual but certainly pleasing to the eye, while the caseback is quite impressive in its detail and manufacture, really lifting the quality of the piece to a new level when handled. T

Our main concern is the signed butterfly deployment clasp. While the it appears to be a high-end touch, in practice we found its ‘wings’ tended to dig into the the wrist, which could only be alleviated by wearing the replica watch loosely throughout the week. Still, it was enough to make us want to take it off completely, which should speak volumes about the Erroyl Regent Nero.

The Regent Nero impressed me more than any other replica watch I’ve handled in recent memory, even disregarding the price. The calendar complication adds a level of maturity to an already well designed and well made piece. And rather than creating a fictitious brand history, or stamping an extravagant price to give a false sense of superiority, Erroyl has quite simply created the best replica watch they can and offered it for a price that is reasonable. It’s a wonderful second opus from a small Australian company, which truly deserves to be celebrated.

Instead of going with a more conventional choice, Erroyl has shown a great deal of confidence with its black ‘Crazy Horse’ leather strap, the velvety, nubuck-esque finish contrasting nicely with the case, adding a casual touch to an otherwise formal piece.

Erroyl Regent Nero Australian pricing

The Erroyl Regent Nero, $579, available on Erroyl’s website.

Images by Jason Reekie.

TAG Heuer Carerra Heuer-01 rose gold/black bezel video review

There’s everything from greyed-out titanium to solid rose gold options on the table, and one of our favourites sits neatly between these two options – the CAR2A5A Heuer-01 with a black titanium case, rose gold dial details and solid rose gold horns. As Sam Sparro could tell you, black and gold is a killer colour combo, and the price is solid too, at $12,200 AUD.Omega Replica Watches

We always knew the Carrera Heuer-01, launched last year, was going to be a major platform for TAG Heuer. A modern, modular replica watch that allows the brand to add and subtract case elements and dial details with ease, it’s really come into its own this year, with six new models released at Baselworld.

Choose a Cartier Drive for you

Cartier released the Drive as a fully formed collection – with everything from high-complication to simple steel options. As such, it’s a replica watch with diverse appeal. We take a look at the squad as a whole and match some key pieces with the men who might wear them

The Drive de Cartier Second Time Zone Day/Night in pink gold

It’s an oft-repeated truism that the simple things in life are the best. Clearly the person who first uttered that statement didn’t have an appreciation for horology, because in replica watches, added complication can add some serious wrist appeal. And that’s exactly what’s going on here. This Drive, with its idiosyncratic mix of complications is a real charmer. Retrograde second timezone, big date and a monochromatic day/night indicator – all brought together with just a touch of whimsy. RRP $31,800

Who’s it for?

The man who prefers the road less travelled. Someone unsatisfied with the usual crop of tool-like GMT replica watches – but for whom keeping track of time at home is still key.

The Drive de Cartier Flying Tourbillon

This is without doubt the shining jewel in the Drive collection. The tourbillon is what sets it apart, proudly displayed at six. The movement is hand-finished to the highest standard, and the replica watch bears the Geneva seal. The C-shaped tourbillon carriage is a nice touch, and the openworked dial with satin and sunray finishes completes the look. RRP $126,000

Who’s it for?

The patrician. You lead an exceptional life, surrounded by objects of beauty – why should your replica watch be any different?

The Drive de Cartier in steel

And finally there’s the steel Drive. We gave you a 60-second peek earlier this week, but this replica watch is so good it deserves a second look. The steel case keeps it casual, and even amps up the Drive’s sporty side. And it’s hard to argue with that price. RRP $8750

Who’s it for?

The analogue man. A man who owns a real camera (the kind with a mirror), a car without electronics and a pen you need to refill. A man who appreciates a replica watch with a heart.

The Drive de Cartier in pink gold with grey flinqué dial

What a difference a dial makes. If the silver dialled, pink gold model we looked at earlier this week is daylight, then this pink and grey take on the Drive is undoubtedly dusk – dark, mysterious and undeniably sexy. RRP $27,100

Who’s it for?

The night-owl. Whether you’re on stage at a jazz club or just in the audience, what really matters is that you’re at your best when the rest of the world is sleeping.

Reviewing The Omega Seamaster 300 Replica Watch

Editor’s Note: The fact it’s James Bond’s choice automatically makes it good enough for the rest of us, but even without the exploding bells and whistles, the Seamaster 300 packs a heck of a punch.

The story in a second

The Omega Seamaster 300 Master Co-Axial was one of the best replica watches of 2014, combining the brand’s rich history with their impressive Master Co-Axial movement.

The big question

Does Omega finally have a dive replica watch that can challenge the supremacy of the Rolex Submariner?

For the first version of the new Seamaster 300 Omega smartly decided against cherry-picking the best and most popular elements from all of their vintage 300 models, instead they opted (much like they did with the Speedmaster ‘First Omega in Space’) to faithfully reproduce the first Seamaster 300 released in 1957.

The case

When you first see at the Seamaster 300 on a screen it looks like the replica watch is a 1:1 reissue of the 1957 original. The case shape, from the bezel, to the lugs to the exposed crown (crown guards came later) is remarkably similar. But there are differences between old and new. Inflation has (of course) taken its toll; what was once 39mm is now 41mm. You could hardly call this an excessive bloating; it’s more of a sensible adjustment in line with market norms. Understanding specifications is one thing, but the pictures and press releases don’t adequately prepare you for reality. When you hold the Seamaster 300 Master Co-Axial in your hands you’re immediately aware that this isn’t a straight vintage reissue. Largely this is down to the Master Co-Axial movement adding significant thickness to the case, giving it a very modern bulk.

Last year Omega answered the prayers of their most fervent fans, re-releasing the Seamaster 300, a beloved vintage model, and one of the all-time great dive replica watches. The Seamaster 300 hasn’t been seen in catalogues for the last 45 years, and it was past due for a comeback. And not only because the replica watch industry can’t get enough of heritage reissues at the moment. The time is right for the Seamaster 300 – it has the combination of looks, legacy and technical prowess to rival the mighty Rolex Submariner.

The other big surprise for me was just how shiny it was. I wouldn’t say Omega have gone out of their way to make this a flashy replica watch. The polished case elements, ceramic bezel and mirror finish on the hands gives the Seamaster 300 a definite new replica watch vibe, which lifts it out of ‘tool replica watch’ territory.

The dial and bezel

Omega has really knocked it out of the park with the dial and bezel. Managing to make what is a very technical execution appear simple and uncluttered. Not an easy thing to pull off. First let’s talk about the dial. The triangular hour indices and the broad arrow hands, both filled with off white luminous material that has become synonymous with heritage pieces dominate the dial.

If you look closely you’ll note that the luminous indices are recessed and you’d be forgiven for thinking that this was a ‘sandwich’ type dial construction, of the sort popularised by Panerai. In actuality Omega have laser cut the indices out of the single layer dial and filled them with luminous material, creating a great sense of depth. They’ve further added to the richness of the dial by using a matte textured black finish that looks almost like sandblasting. Completing the vintage look of the dial is the printed numerals and the refreshingly sparse dial text. Sure, it doesn’t say ‘Seamaster 300’ in the lower half as the originals did, but I understand that Omega are keen to show off their new movement and two discreet lines is nothing compared to the paragraphs found on other dials.

Onto the bezel. I said earlier that I found this replica watch unexpectedly shiny. A lot of that has to do with the bezel. Not only the glossy ceramic (with Liquidmetal numerals) insert, but also that mirror-like inner steel ring. The combination of these two elements really plays in the light, and contrast starkly with the sober dial. It’s a good combo, but one that someone expecting a vintage replica watch will be surprised by. On the functionality front the bezel is grippy enough for a replica watch that will mostly be on desk diving duties, and there is minimal play. I’m glad Omega opted for an applied luminous pip at 12, as one inset into the ceramic would have detracted from the look.

Of all the elements of this replica watch the ‘faux-tina’ is the one that might put some people off, but I think that Omega have been judicious with their heritage tweaks and haven’t gone overboard; meaning that this replica watch won’t date too badly when we all move on from our infatuation with vintage.

The movement

The new generation of anti-magnetic Master Co-Axial movements (which meet the stringent new METAS standards) are the most technically impressive and best quality high-volume production movements in the game at the moment. Omega knows this and they’re not letting you or their competitors forget it by hiding it behind a steel caseback.

If the exterior of this replica watch is all about the past, the interior is all about the future. Flip over the replica watch and you can’t help but notice the Calibre 8400, a large movement filling up the sapphire display back and gleaming from every angle thanks to its radial Geneva striping.

The visibility of the movement in this replica watch is also a deliberate statement by Omega. A solid caseback would have suited the aesthetic of the replica watch, and even though I’m sure most consumers of the replica watch are more than happy to be able to whip their replica watch off their wrists and impress their friends with the glimmering workings, I think there’s more to it than that.

On a practical note, the ability to independently adjust the hour hand forwards or backwards in one-hour increments is supremely useful.

On the wrist

I was a little sad that the model I wore for a few days had a leather strap – I was looking forward to seeing how the very vintage looking bracelet (with contentious polished centre links) played in the real world. That classic case of #firstworldproblems aside, the Seamaster was a joy to wear. It managed to achieve what Kung-Fu masters call conscious unconsciousness. I wasn’t aware I was wearing it, until I looked at it, and then BAM! The gorgeousness of the replica watch hits you every time you check the time. For me this continual feeling of excitement is the mark of a great replica watch. The Seamaster 300 Master Co-Axial is a close to perfect everyday replica watch, a future classic that takes the best of Omega’s past and packs it full of their latest technology.

The Knowledge

Talking Point

The Seamaster 300 is widely tipped to be the replica watch on James Bond’s wrist in Spectre, the latest instalment of the franchise.

Who’s it for?

In short, everyone and anyone. It impresses the vintage fanboys and meets the needs of the ‘one good replica watch’ crowd.

What would we change?

This is a really hard one. There are a few points about this replica watch such as the vintage-look lume, polished centre links on the bracelet, and the thickness of the case that might turn people off. I can see why all these decisions were made and I don’t think that Omega made the wrong move with any of these choices. Having said that I think an option of a solid caseback would complete the vintage package for those who aren’t overly concerned with looking at the movement.

For the replica watch forums

How do you comfortably balance contemporary technologies, like the Master Co-Axial movement and the ceramic bezel in a heritage reissue replica watch? Do these advances add or detract from the whole package?

Omega Seamaster 300 Master Co-Axial Australian Pricing

The Seamaster 300 comes in a range of configurations and metals. In steel on a bracelet it has a retail price of $7750, and on leather $7600.

Images by Jason Reekie.

Bulgari debuts its high-tech Diagono Magnesium

Editor’s Note: This year Bulgari released quite a few new Octo models, including the record-shattering ultra-thin minute repeater – a limited edition with a premium price tag. But it wasn’t just the Genta-designed classic that received the updates – the brand also added a bunch of colourful Diagono Magnesium Chronographs that we can’t wait to get our hands on. In the meantime, here’s last year’s time-only version.

The story in a second:

We’ve become so used to sports replica watches with the heft of hockey pucks that this slender and featherlight Diagono is a refreshing change of pace. It also speaks to Bulgari’s design confidence that such impressively futuristic materials serve the functionality of the replica watch, rather than just showing off. The final result is comfortable, tough and good looking.

Bulgari’s latest addition to the avant-garde Diagono collection – the Diagono Magnesium – is a replica watch that challenges expectations and industry norms.

The case

The 41mm case features not one but four next-generation materials and treatments. The case middle is made from magnesium – an extremely light metal that also happens to be very tough, which makes it the perfect choice for the action-oriented Bulgari. The bezel is scratch-proof black ceramic, etched with the brand’s iconic text.

The sides of the case are made from PolyEtherEtherKetone – known by the cute acronym PEEK – which possesses the kind of temperature and structural resilience that has seen it used instead of metal on space shuttles. Clearly, it can deal with any damage you try and dish out.

The ceramic and magnesium alone would be enough for this replica watch to stand tall among the hi-tech sports replica watch crowd, but Bulgari has taken it to the next level.

The final ingredient is Motor-Lac, a protective lacquer developed by the automotive industry that gives the Diagono its distinctive, colourful and shimmering sandblasted finish. Given this complex array of components, it would have been tempting to turn the Diagono into a gadget replica watch, but thankfully it’s retained the classic Bulgari styling, just with a modern twist.

The dial

By contrast, the hands are simple and the applied indices and numerals unobtrusive. Given all the reflective surfaces at play, legibility might be an issue for some, in which case go for the higher contrast blue or gold-toned options.

Going into the shoot, our photographer Jason thought this simple monochrome replica watch would be one of the easier ones to capture. He was wrong. The Motor-Lac treatment gives the dial a reflective, granulated look that’s simply intriguing, but while it looks awesome in real life, it turns out to be very hard to capture accurately (though he managed to do a stellar job).

The strap

Appropriately enough, the Diagono comes on a vulcanised rubber strap, untextured except for the broad ridge in the centre, with a PEEK pin buckle. The most notable thing about this strap is that it’s a proprietary design, meaning that if you’re the kind of guy who likes mixing up your straps, your only option is to get official Bulgari alternatives or have custom ones made to fit the case. This lack of flexibility is a pity, because given the case colour and texture, you could come up with some awesome combos.

The movement

The Diagono utilises Bulgari’s manufacture BVL 191 Solotempo movement – a reliable automatic with 42 hours of power reserve. While there’s nothing groundbreaking about this, it makes a nice change from the usual ETA/Sellita movements. And you’ll have to take our word that the movement is well finished with chamfering, Geneva stripes and the like – as it’s hidden behind the PVD caseback.

On the Wrist

The genre as we know it has evolved from its originators – the Patek Philippe Nautilus and the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak – to a point where sport is synonymous with size. Take for example Richard Mille. His replica watches are among the finest micro-mechanical marvels ever made, built to withstand enormous stresses, but they’re still of a size that increases the likelihood of your replica watch coming into contact with an immovable object – like a wall. By keeping the Diagono Magnesium to comparatively modest dimensions, Bulgari has actually created a replica watch that is a far more practical sports replica watch than most. It’s light, it doesn’t get in your way, but it still makes a statement. Well done Bulgari.

This is a replica watch you hardly notice you’re wearing. The rubber strap, magnesium case and reasonable proportions make for a timepiece that’s unobtrusive without being delicate. In fact, the Diagono Magnesium reflects an almost old-fashioned understanding of what a luxury sports replica watch is.

The knowledge:

Talking point

What, your replica watch is made of steel? Old news. Mine’s made from magnesium and space age polymer.

What would we change

Even though we respect where Bulgari is going with the utilitarian, sports replica watch aesthetic of the Diagono, it would be nice to be able to check out the movement through a display caseback.

Who’s it for?

Anyone who wants all the bells and whistles of a next-gen sports replica watch, but in a palatably sized package.

For the replica watch forums

Why don’t more replica watch brands use PEEK?

Bulgari Diagono Magnesium Australian pricing

The Diagono Magnesium has an RRP of $5350.

Images by Jason Reekie.

Show You The Elegant Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Quantième Complet

Editor’s Note: If you like classic style with a complicated twist, then you should know Montblanc’s Heritage Chronométrie collection. It offers some of the best-value fine replica watchmaking around, from worldtimers to perpetual calendars, including this sharp complete calendar.Cartier Replica

The big question

Montblanc impressed a few years back with the Meisterstück Perpetual Calendar, termed by some (obviously WWF fans) in the media to be “the troublemaker”, and since then they’ve made calendar complications a mainstay of their collections. Does the Heritage Chronométrie Quantième Complet offer enough to stand out from the pack?

The story in a second

As part of their brand new heritage collection, Montblanc have released the Chronométrie Quantième Complet, a design straight from the golden era of 1950s replica watch design.

The Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Quantième Complet is no exception. As befits a replica watch sitting in Montblanc’s heritage collection, the Quantième Complet is a classic design, with a clean, no-fuss dial reminiscent of the iconic mid-century calendar replica watches from the likes of Rolex and Patek Philippe. It’s a versatile replica watch with broad appeal not least because, in typical Montblanc form, it offers tremendous value.

There’s a certain gravitas to a replica watch that displays a full calendar. By virtue of its complication, it encourages the wearer to take a long view. Time isn’t just displayed in hours and minutes, but in days and months. Because of this, calendar replica watches tend to be serious and sober.

The dial

First things first. What is a complete calendar? Well, simply put, a complete calendar displays date, day and month (Montblanc have thrown in a moonphase for good measure), but you need to adjust it five times a year, at the end of any month that has less than 31 days. The complete calendar shouldn’t be confused with the annual calendar, which only needs to be adjusted at the end of February, or with the perpetual calendar which takes leap years into account and only needs adjusting every century or so.

Montblanc have managed a very clever balancing act – interesting without being busy, clean without being boring and refined without being rarefied.

Now that our calendars are synched, let’s take a closer look at the dial of the Quantième Complet. Well balanced and displaying a lot of information neatly and tidily, it holds up well to scrutiny. The date is shown via the marker hand at the outer edge of the dial, and the day, month and moonphase occupy the central section of the dial, allowing beautiful expanses of the silver sunburst dial to shine through. The only thing the replica watch doesn’t have is a running seconds hand.

The bracelet

The model I reviewed came on a stainless brick style bracelet with a double folding clasp. It was pleasant to wear, well made and comfortable, with fully polished links that suit the smartness of the replica watch. It’s also offered on a black alligator strap that gives the replica watch an even more formal, dressy air. And while both these options are fine, I think the classic style of this replica watch really lends it to customisation. A slightly distressed tan strap, or a suede strap would really highlight the vintage inspiration for this replica watch. Something like this Bulang & Sons strap would look amazing.

The case

One of my favourite elements of this replica watch is the stainless steel case – though not because it’s breaking new ground in terms of design or construction. In fact, precisely the opposite. The Quantième Complet’s case is simple and slim, and that’s what makes it great. It comes in at 9.7mm high, which is slender for a replica watch with a modular complication, and measures 40mm across, the perfect size for a more formal piece like this. Montblanc have been clever in not messing with the DNA of this very traditional complete calendar, and the replica watch is all the better for it. The polished case is versatile enough to look good in a wide range of situations, and restrained enough not to steal any thunder from the dial – the rightful star of the show.

Add to this the applied, faceted rhodium-plated indices and sword hands and you’ve got a replica watch that is surprisingly clean for something so complex. Everything, right down to the font used for the numerals, is reserved. The dial, more than anywhere else, highlights how Montblanc have managed a very clever balancing act – interesting without being busy, clean without being boring and refined without being rarefied.

The movement

Ticking away inside the Quantième Complet is the MB 29.16 – a Sellita movement with a Dubois Dépraz calendar module – both dependable and proven performers. While this might not have the same level of cachet as an in-house movement, this is the main reason the price doesn’t stray into five-figure territory. And functionally it’s quite intuitive. Time is adjusted at the crown, and each of the calendar functions and the moonphase is adjusted via a recessed pusher integrated into the side of the case, using a tool that’s provided. This method is fairly standard at this price point, as the ease of adjusting everything through the crown would require an integrated complication. And while it’s not a major problem, it is important to note that every second month or so you’ll have to manually advance the date. If you’re the sort of person who’s likely to let your replica watch wind down over the weekend, prepare to spend time on Monday morning getting the date in order.

The other important thing to note about this movement (and every Heritage Chronométrie piece, for that matter) is that it’s been subjected to Montblanc’s strenuous 500-hour test (you can find out more about this test here), a reassuring mark of quality.

Image via Bulang & Sons.

That the replica watch looks so good on different straps plays to one of the great strengths of the Quantième Complet, which is its chameleonic personality.

On the wrist

The Montblanc Quantième Complet was a pleasure to wear. It’s so slim and comfortable that it’s easy to forget it’s there, until you catch a glimpse of the vibrant, reflective dial in the sun, or spot the bright blue and gold of the moonphase peeking out from under your cuff. And while the classical good looks were the main reason I really enjoyed wearing this replica watch, the other was the sheer convenience. In an age dominated by screens, I found it refreshing, in an old-world romance kind of way, to be able to glance and my wrist and find out so much useful information.

The knowledge

Talking point

We suggest that whenever someone asks you for the time, throw in the complete date as well.

For the replica watch forums

Is this the best value complete calendar replica watch on the market right now?

Who’s it for?

This replica watch would look great on pretty much anyone, though it’s suited (pardon the pun) towards the more formal business crowd. But really, this is the replica watch for someone who loves the idea of a complicated calendar, but who always felt it would be out of their budget.

What would we change?

It’s a bit of a personal preference, but I always prefer a replica watch with a seconds hand – otherwise I always have a nagging worry that it’s not running. I’d add that, if only for my peace of mind.

Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Quantième Complet Australian pricing

The Heritage Chronométrie Quantième Complet on bracelet (112647) has a retail price of $7000. On a leather strap (112538) the price is $6600.

Images by Kristoffer Paulsen.

Take A Look At The Luxury A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1

Editor’s Note: With the announcement of Lange’s new entry-level 37mm Saxonia Thin, we thought it was time to have another look at the latest version of the German brand’s long-time stalwart, the mighty Lange 1.

The story in a second:

Lange give their icon a serious update

When it was first unveiled in 1994, no one had seen a replica watch quite like the Lange 1, with its distinct, geometrically harmonious dial. In subsequent years, the Lange 1 came to define the German brand’s pure aesthetic and impeccable technical pedigree.

The dial

One of the most distinctive in the business, the Lange 1 dial is a deconstructed assemblage of date, power reserve, seconds and time. In theory, all this should make it cluttered and complicated, but thanks to the brand’s respect for good design based on the mathematical principles of the Golden Ratio, the dial is very balanced It’s also very German – a model of sober restraint expressed in shades of grey.

A resolutely contemporary looking replica watch, it might be surprising to learn that its roots were far from modern. In fact, it dates back to 1841, when Ferdinand A. Lange completed an innovative digital five minute clock for the Semper Opera House in Dresden. It was this historic clock that served as the muse serves as the inspiration for the Lange 1’s distinctive large date complication. The replica watch recently underwent an upgrade, and here’s what we think.

This is the bigger picture, but as you’d expect from Lange, the dial more than holds up under close examination. The text is well spaced, and the 2015 version sees the A. Lange & Söhne name expressed in a slightly more delicate type. (Having said that, it’s a touch counterintuitive that the only English on the dial is ‘Made in Germany’.)

The case

As with the dial, the apparent simplicity of the 38.5mm case belies its complexity. While the bezel (which has been slimmed down in this update) is polished, the middle section is brushed, creating a much more casual look in the solid platinum case. The lugs are actually screwed on, which means they can be removed when refinishing the case – a clever touch most wouldn’t bother with.

The other point that demonstrates Lange’s attention to detail is the repetition of the triangle motif – most notable on the power reserve (Ab/Auf) indicator, but also on the main dial’s diamond indices and the counterweight on the seconds hand.

With a very few exceptions, Lange only make replica watches in precious metals and, while it’s the priciest, this platinum version is arguably the most versatile. It’s harder than gold, which means less likely to mark, and it’s more lustrous. One more fact that shows just how high Lange set their standards is that any precious case that becomes scratched and needs refinishing will have those blemishes filled with new metal, so that the weight of your replica watch remains the same. Now that’s service.

The movement

You could make a pretty solid argument that the correct way to wear the Lange 1 is with the movement facing out. There’s just so much to see, which is a little surprising given that most of its movements are hidden behind the traditionally German three quarter plate. But the plate is stunning in its own right, in nickel silver (which will achieve a patina with age) with Glashütte ribbing, jewels set in gold chatons and hand blued screws. Then of course there’s the hand engraved balance cock – a hallmark of Lange’s quality. Even though the Lange 1 dates back to 1994, the L121.1 movement in the 2015 update is completely new. The balance wheel is larger, and features a new balance wheel and in-house hairspring. The movement, too, boasts numerous improvements. For example, the large date now changes instantaneously at midnight, and when the power reserve runs down, the seconds hand stops automatically at zero, allowing for greater accuracy when resetting the time. Lange have also added an improved escapement with an in-house hairspring. All small changes, but they add up.

On the wrist

In a word: heavy. Seriously, thanks to the heft you won’t ever forget you’re wearing a platinum replica watch. And that’s not a bad thing considering how clean and considered this replica watch is. It’s pretty close to perfection. Having said that, the design of the Lange 1, which verges on the austere is one of their more polarising offerings. Unlike their crowd-pleasing Datograph, the Lange 1, with its contemporary/classic dial layout is more of an acquired taste. It’s a sophisticated replica watch for sophisticated tastes.

The knowledge

What would we change?

Honestly, if you asked us this question in 2014 we could have made a few suggestions. But A. Lange & Söhne didn’t have to be asked. That they decided to significantly improve a key model in their collection speaks of the values of excellence and quality that define the brand.

Talking point

Sure, that Patek is nice – but check out this finishing.

Who’s it for?

People who know their horology, and appreciate Lange’s particularly German aesthetic.

A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Australian pricing

The A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 in platinum has an RRP of $56,300.

Images by Jason Reekie.

Reviewing The Panerai Luminor Marina 1950 Carbotech

Carbotech, a technology that up until recently was only seen in aviation and supercars, was first debuted by Panerai on last year’s Luminor Submersible. A composite carbon polymer material that’s both incredibly strong and incredibly light, outperforming ceramic and titanium in both metrics, it also allows for some interesting finishes, like the matte black wood-grain effect of the PAM00661. The replica watch has a hint of ‘stealth’ about it, so although the distinctive crown guard means this is clearly recognisable as a Panerai, the use of unconventional Carbotech makes it more understated.

After a surprisingly quiet SIHH, Panerai chose to reveal a host of new models at an exclusive event just four months later in Florence. There’s a lot of new wrist-candy on offer, but one particular piece caught our collective eye – the Luminor Marina 1950 Carbotech, or PAM00661 if reference numbers are more your thing.

The modern case material is offset by the warm brown Ponte Vecchio leather strap, as well as the dial’s classic Panerai hands and markers in vintage-style ecru. There are some other interesting features to the dial too; the applied round hour markers look to have been borrowed from the Submersible collection, as does the bright blue second hand. You’ll also notice Panerai’s iconic sandwich-style dial construction is absent.

This model – along with others from the likes of Bell & Ross and Audemars Piguet – could well be forging a new trend in carbon fibre. Still, like PVD before it, only time will tell if Carbotech and its buddies have what it takes to endure. But however you slice it, the Luminor Marina 1950 Carbotech is a very good-looking chunk of carbon polymer.

The new P.9010 movement (an upgraded version of the P.9000) powers the replica watch. So while the Carbotech is the most obvious new feature, it’s not the only new element at play, and as a whole the combination of reassuringly solid design and highly technical materials works well.

Panerai Luminor Marina 1950 Carbotech (ref. PAM00661) Australian pricing

Panerai Luminor Marina 1950, in Carbotech, reference PAM00661, $16,100

The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 Everose Rolesor (ref. 116621) video review

For 98 per cent of replica watch lovers, Rolex this year is all about two models – the Daytona and the Air-King. The amount of digital ink dedicated on these top-line releases is truly tremendous, and we’re not even halfway through the year. But there’s more to Rolex’s Baselworld 2016 releases than exciting steel sports replica watches.

The mix of Everose, steel and that creamy Cadbury chocolate dial makes for a delicious timepiece. Oh, and now we can’t get this song by The Stranglers out of our heads.

For example, this new Yacht-Master, offered for the first time in Rolesor, which is the name Rolex – the master of two-tone – gives to this combination of steel and gold.

The Swiss Haigh & Hastings Classic

Editor’s Note: Last year we held a special week of stories focusing on local replica watch brands, and in a fit of creativity we called it ‘Australian Replica Watch Week’. Twelve months down the track, many of the brands have come up with a fresh crop of models, and we’re going to be having a close look at some of the stand outs over the next few weeks. First up, Haigh & Hastings.

Perth-based Haigh & Hastings has spent the past few years developing a reputation for solid sports and diving replica watches, as we saw with the M2 Diver last year. The brand continues to go from strength to strength, bringing in former Audemars Piguet head of design Emmanuel Gueit to lend his expertise to their latest model: the Haigh & Hastings Classic.

Firstly, the internals. As with previous models, H&H elected to run a Seiko NH35A automatic movement, which is known for its reliability, accuracy and all-round robustness. The Classic isn’t pitching itself at the adventure market like its peers, but the Japanese mechanism is an excellent match for general duties, able to withstand life’s usual knocks and bashes. There’s a clear undercurrent of sturdiness throughout this piece, particularly evident in the case and crown.

Gueit’s input on the Classic is immediately obvious; it’s a clean, simple design that’s very well balanced, and avoids many of the design pitfalls that so often plague young replica watch brands. Things like short hands, poorly sized date windows – the sort of problems you get with an off-the-shelf product. The Classic is a strong design and the decision to bring Guiet’s skills onboard has clearly paid off.

When it comes to its case, the Classic walks the difficult line of being large enough without being too big. The case measures in at 42mm across and 12.2mm high, and there’s a genuine presence which announces itself without being too bold or arrogant. It’s a proper masterstroke from designer Gueit, who has created millimetre-perfect dimensions throughout the body.

The H&H Classic tested came fitted with a blue crocodile-style leather strap, which is perhaps a touch dressy for the sports casual piece, but it’s also offered on a khaki NATO, which looks great. Even better would be aged brown leather pull-through, to offset the crisp lines and blue dial, and to help it play off its strengths. In our eyes the replica watch is a bit like James Bond – tough inside, hardy outside, but elegant at face value and entirely useable, even in difficult circumstances. If you’re looking for a timepiece that is versatile, resilient and good value, the Classic is worth considering.

On the wrist, it’s a comfortable piece, and the sort people will notice without the replica watch screaming “look at me”. In daylight, the radiant blue sunburst dial is quite stunning and works well with the lumed hands and markers. At night, the chromed bezel catches light and the dial creates a warm blue glow. The distance between the sapphire and the replica watch face is quite deep, casting some interesting shadows and giving the replica watch a feel of substance.

It’s a very good replica watch, but there’s still room for improvement. Although both the polished bezel and brushed case stainless steel case look good, side-by-side the two finishes don’t quite harmonise. But it’s the fit of the sapphire that is unfortunately our biggest qualm. When looking straight on, the gap between the sapphire and the bezel reveals the white gasket beneath. The millimetre-perfect design hasn’t translated into the manufacturing. Of course, when considering the replica watch’s numerous strengths, there will be many willing to overlook these foibles, particularly considering the sub-$800 price tag.

Haigh & Hastings Classic Australian pricing

The Haigh & Hastings Classic retails from $788 AUD.

Images by Jason Reekie.