Yuki 16mm buckle comparison with gen

[dbane883]

Just thought I'd post a quick comparison of a gen 16mm strap buckle with a Yuki buckle. I have used the Yuki's on several of my leather straps for years and they are very very good. But here's a few photos showing the slight variances. Please note that Rolex has been making buckles of this style for decades and have most likely used more than one supplier. As such, even gen buckles may vary depending on what era it's from.

What stands out immediately is the coronet. Yukis is a bit fat and less refined than the gen. Also, the gen uses a much more robust 1.7mm non-shouldered spring bar compared to the cheaper Yuki. Of course, no one will see the bars once installed in a strap.

Stamps on the back are a touch messy on the Yuki but again, will not be seen. There are several different gen layouts. The yukis are at least stamped. There are many other aftermarket examples that are laser etched.  But like most other rep buckles, there is the lack of space in between "ACERINOX".. which is an immediate tell.

There are also some subtle differences in the side profile.

So for 1/4 to 1/5 th the cost, Yuki buckles are a pretty good value.

Have a great day

[freddy333]

I think someone else did a similar comparison several years ago (Nanuq?), but great write up!

[Bart Cordell]

Was waiting for this thread, dbane do it. Thanks !

Those buckles are very nice on a good vintage leather strap.

Here is the 16mm I bought on the bay few days ago.

The crown is better than yuki's in my opinion, seems closer to gen.

And a friend give me a 20mm buckle, but I don't know the source. Maybe a Yuki, compared to your pics.

[freddy333]

Check this thread out.

[hologramet]

20 hours ago, Bart Cordell said:

 

Was waiting for this thread, dbane do it. Thanks !

 

Those buckles are very nice on a good vintage leather strap.

 

Here is the 16mm I bought on the bay few days ago.

 

The crown is better than yuki's in my opinion, seems closer to gen.

 

 

And a friend give me a 20mm buckle, but I don't know the source. Maybe a Yuki, compared to your pics.

 

 

 

I think the 20mm buckle is from me? 

In that case it's from zhouleistore and costs somewhere between 5 and 8 USD I think. I use them on my MoD-straps. 

[Bart Cordell]

I think the 20mm buckle is from me? 

In that case it's from zhouleistore and costs somewhere between 5 and 8 USD I think. I use them on my MoD-straps. 

Exactly my friend ! Never use it because I don't have 20mm straps, but it's not bad at all.

[Mendota Explorer]

Exactly my friend ! Never use it because I don't have 20mm straps, but it's not bad at all.

Who is the seller for your 16mm buckle?

Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk

[Bart Cordell]

An indian seller.

I will search for you later.

[Bart Cordell]

@Mendota Explorer

watches-parts eBay seller

[RickFlorida]

Thanks for posting this.   But it seems Yuki buckles are never in stock.  I guess the profit or sale of these items are too small.