Why is replica lume so poor in general?

[calatrava]

I was wondering why replica manufacturers don't use superluminova pigments in their higher end replicas, it is somewhat annoying to have a out of box replica with weak lume, since it dramatically compromises the functionality of the watch, and costs much more to fix after market, than it would for the replica manufacturers to get it right at the get go.

I guess I would like to know what is the secret of powerful lume on a watch, is it simply an issue of using superluminova pigments, or does one have to apply multiple coats as well? If it was just an issue of using better lume powder, we should really start applying pressure to the dealers to get the factories to up their game in this regard.

Edited April 9, 2011 by calatrava

[praetor]

because super luminova is worth more than gold is why.

[Jkay]

it's about delivering the bare minimum acceptable to the buyer, to maximize profits earned.

[calatrava]

it's about delivering the bare minimum acceptable to the buyer, to maximize profits earned.

I just added a poll to see if people would be willing to pay more for good lume on their watch. To put things in perspective, how much would it cost in raw materials to use superluminova to lume a typical diver watch?

[By-Tor]

WM9 Submariner v2/v3 use Super Luminova. It's just as good as gen in this regard.

I think the WM9 Yacht-Master too.

[Jkay]

Why would Chinese factory owners cut their milk with .. what was it a couple of years ago .. gypsum ?? maximize profit.

[praetor]

and just because they use super lume, it doesn't mean that it's going to be properly applied, which I care more about.

[Usil]

Workers steal the good stuff according to a dealer.

Usil

[valerian]

Workers steal the good stuff according to a dealer.

And here's a trace of the real differences between Rep and Gen pricing. If your worker steals the expensive stuff maybe he's not paid enough to develop some loyalty? Just food for thought.

Val.

[hooky]

Well, this was the old and former discussion about the value of good bright lume. Arguments were that the lume was worth more than gold for the same weight. Other arguments were that the replica factory workers would steal it. Blablabla..

The recent releases from the H-factory with models like PAM026, PAM212, PAM253, PAM288, PAM219, PAM177, PAM005 just proof that good lume does not have to be expensive anymore. So the question of paying a bit more is not relevant imo. Just the other factories should be able or be willing to find a good supplier of good lume, same as the H-factory uses...

[BGGodwin]

The thing is they are selling watches without phenomenal lume... Why change? They are making their product, peole are buying it, and so why spend more money and potential cut into their profits?