Watchmeister

In the new world of super reps this one is a half ass effort. Vote with your checkbook (or lack thereof). With the high standards of Breitling reps it is surprising.

You can make all the rolex shape cases you like.. but put the Rolex logo on and sell them.. then you're in a whole different league..

Then let's go with Polex!

These rep cases are made by the same companies that make watches for the Chinese masses. They're not made in sweatshops and they could be made to gen specs if they wanted to make them.

Most of our cases are sintered - metal "powder" poured into a mold and then "baked" to a level below melt point. Half the time they are not properly hardened. That is why you see cases occasionally lose a chunk. Gen cases use a chunk of properly formed 316L (or whatever specified steel) and then cut it down from the block. Night and day difference.

Let's start with needing a 6 axis machine (at least for Panerai case) and the number of folks who have one. It's the little things like the bevel or radius edges that kill you. There is a reason why the rep guys sinter their cases. CNC is cost prohibitive if you are trying to get a case which is close to spec.

Very nice. Wear it well.

Let that one lie. It is what it is. They were a good value at the time.

In particular I hope that they will pay attention to the back and to getting all the stamps correct (750 if it is titanium and spelling errors are high on the suspect list... ).

Too funny. Any other guesses as to what goes wrong with the first version?

There is no such thing as a silly question when asked politely (as you have). Glad you are having a good experience here. On the PM's the one thing I would add is that if you do start using the system frequently you should consider setting up email alert so you are alerted when a PM does moe in.

Welcome to the wonderful world of Panerai Frankendom. Congratulations, you are headed down the inevitable path to poverty.

Everyone is still waiting for the new one.

interesting, is this the crystal that has been for sale on the bay at $350? I was hesitating on getting it!

No. I didn't see the listing. It is from a local parts source where I have gotten most of my parts over the years.

Take 10 minutes and draw yourself a map. 57th street alone has Audemars Piguet, Franck Muller, Tourneau, Wempe, etc. Madison Avenue starts with Cellini on 51st, Panerai on 54th next to the largest IWC boutique (announced but not open) and going north has Breguet, Chopard, Lange, UN (I think) and 3-4 others. And yes, if you are in for looking at random ridiculous high end watches 47th Street between 5-6th is the place. You will never see so many Patek's in the Patek "lunch sack" or tourbillons from everyone. There is far more selection of virtually every brand there than in any boutique. If you are here for days I would split it up with an hour or two for the retail shops and an hour on 47th Street. Have fun.

Now I see the pics. Looks great. .

Great piece. I built one of those years ago as well. Mine went to the legendary Archibald. I do miss it. Wear that one well.

Very nice. Always loved that dial. The original "Boutique" series is the only Boutique series.

Honestly can't see pics while at work but wanted to say I can't wait to get home and see the pics. I may finally have a daily wearer. Great stuff.

+1 with Freddy. If you are inclined to own a fewer number of watches, can afford gens and at some level want to in light of your post than go for the gen. I buy reps of watches which I either have no interest in owning the gen of (or want to try it before sinking the money into buying a gen) or watches which are at a price point which I know I will never be able to swing.

I don't have any pics but I will testify....standard garb on naked chicks is a white gold daytona and a landing strip. And of course they only come in pairs.

Very nice. Nothing can compare with a gen dial. And for that reason anything without a gen dial is not a franken. So wear that one well.

Congrats on your purchase. Also nice to see you posting again.

Those endlinks fit are better than my gens.

I wouldn't hold out for a V2. I don't think we will see one anytime soon. V1 sold well.

In 2008 eveyrthing was a lot cheaper.... remember the financial crisis?

Think of it like Pokemon - "Gotta catch them all" Congrats, enjoy it.

I think it looks good. If there is really a smudge just ask the dealer to wipe away the smudge before sending.