makeboss

Dluddy, the image filename says "franken"... what's the story behind this beauty?

Look at that damn beauty. My first rep was a great 42mm PO (black bezel, orange lettering) from Narikaa on Repgeek forums - The price was reasonable and asides from the pearl, I was very satisfied with my purchasem experience. Sadly, the crystal shattered seemingly out of the blue! Gah!! Instead of making the intelligent move (contacting the dealer or finding a replacement crystal), I tossed the whole thing in the garbage, wishing I had sprung for for a pricier and hopefully better-made rep. Although I obviously don't NEED a new rep, but revisiting the forums and seeing the gorgeous pictures of other member's reps and franken-rep projects, I'm drooling over the thoughts of having another gorgeous orangey-black slab of metal sitting heavy on my wrist. The problem is that, as I understand it, the rep game moves very quickly and quality is touch-and-go. Can you guys get me up to speed? Is there a trusted dealer that offers a high-quality 42.5mm Speedmaster planet ocean? My previous purchase was ~150 USD, but many dealers charge 238 and higher, but is there any guarantee of greater quality for a greater price? I'm absolutely willing to spend more for something that will last longer than the 2 months or so that my previous, inexpensive PO got me. Edit: Authenticity can be passable, quality of the build is over greater concern. I want to be able to add a nylon or rubber strap in the future, and possibly swap out the bezel.