Factory: F1F / F1 Factory

Watch Name: Cartier Tank Louis 22mm

Dial / Bezel / Color: White dial, black Roman numerals, blue hands, yellow-gold tone case, brown alligator-style leather strap

Seller: Steve — TheOneWatches

Price Paid incl. shipping: $298

Movement: Quartz

Timegrapher Pics: N/A — quartz movement

QC Notes

* Dial alignment: Looks good overall from the photos. I notice a possible very slight rotation/tilt in some angles, but this may just be due to perspective.

* Printing / “CARTIER”: The Cartier logo and dial printing look clean to me. I do not see any obvious bleeding, crooked logo, or major printing defect.

* Roman numerals: Numerals look sharp and consistent overall. The lower section near “SWISS MADE” is the area I would like extra opinions on, but nothing looks immediately bad.

* Hands: Blue hands look good, centered, and proportional for the dial.

* Case / finishing: Yellow-gold tone case looks clean. No obvious scratches, dents, or plating issues visible in the QC photos.

* Crown / cabochon: Crown looks aligned and the blue cabochon appears properly seated.

* Caseback: Caseback engraving/stickers look typical for F1F. No major concern from the photos.

* Strap / buckle: Brown alligator-style strap looks okay. It appears a bit glossy, but that seems common and can be replaced later if needed.

* Overall condition: No obvious major defects visible from the pictures.

My thoughts

This is my QC for a F1F Cartier Tank Louis 22mm quartz from Steve. For the price, it looks like a solid piece to me. My only small concern is whether the dial is perfectly straight, but I think it may just be camera angle.

Would you GL or RL this one? Any help is appreciated!

Hello everyone and happy Sunday!

We start off another giveaway courtesy of our trusted dealer (TD) Aura. It's a VSF 126500 Daytona, the latest series Daytona in the market with a DD4131 movement. Widely considered the best Daytona rep made, I own one 116500 and I couldn't be happier with it.

Typing this as I'm wearing a modded 5712 I bought from him, I can only recommend him so much after the mountain of questions I asked about the SW dial and how to safely operate the movement A240, his patience was never ending. I left a review of the buying process 2 weeks ago on this subreddit, feel free to check it out.

How to win this giveaway:

1: Be a member of R/RepWatchesEU.

2: Like and leave a comment on this post saying "hello Aura" and join his Telegram channel, linked below.

3: Winner will be randomly chosen via Reddit raffles bot, same as all the other giveaways we've done previously, with me and my other admin not participating in the name of fairness to not take away from the community.

Winner will be chosen after 45 days, and as always, if he doesn't reply to us after a week, a new winner will be chosen using the same methods mentioned above.

Here's a message from him:

"I'm AuraTime, a seller on the TD platform. I'm a premium watch dealer from China. I offer top-notch service and transparent pricing, bringing watch enthusiasts the highest quality watches on the market.

I have long-term partnerships with several large factories, making it easy to find the products you need.

Top Brands: VSF, ZF, ARF, Clean Plus

Professional Brands: QF, TOP, RCF, RGF, DDF, CBD. These brands are priced higher than the aforementioned brands.

🛠️ In addition to supplying watches, I also offer customization and modification services.

Below is my personal information, but you can find it all on the TD list too.

Name: AuraTime

Price: Medium

WhatsApp: +85264125196

Telegram: +852 9 554 5716

Email: auratime889@gmail.com

Customs Insurance: Yes! ✅

Services include: Hand and Dial Replacement (SW, BUFF, etc.)

Deep Crystal

Strap Refurbishment

Movement Maintenance

And other services, please inquire!

Website: https://auratime.cc/

💵Payment Methods💵: PayPal, Alipay, Cryptocurrency, Bank Transfer, and Wise."

Best of luck to you all, hope this cheers up your weekend!

-Blue

This episode focuses on a detailed breakdown of the VS Factory Seamaster 300M diver watch (equipped with the 8800 integrated movement), covering authentication details, exterior characteristics, and functional operations.

Packaging and Accessories Identification

The VS Factory Seamaster 300 features specific packaging identifiers, including a product identification card and a long travel strap. For the steel bracelet version, an additional rubber strap is included. These accessories serve as key initial indicators for version verification.

Case Dimensions and Material Details

The watch features a unidirectional rotating ceramic bezel. The case diameter is 42mm with a thickness of 13.4mm, closely matching genuine specifications. The lume is dual-colored: the “lume pip” and hands glow green, while the remaining indices emit an ice-blue tone.

Crown Feel and Operating Logic

After unscrewing the crown, the winding feel is smooth and refined, noticeably different from the heavier resistance of the 2824 movement. The helium escape valve is screw-down functional. For time setting, pull the crown to the final position and adjust counterclockwise (referred to as “reverse time setting”). Date adjustment follows the same forward-reversing logic.

Date Jump Mechanism and Maintenance Advice

The movement features an instantaneous date change mechanism. The demonstration shows the date jumping precisely around 12:03, with no pre-jump behavior. It is recommended to avoid adjusting the date when the hour hand is positioned between 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock. Instead, move the hands to the lower half of the dial before adjustment to protect the movement gears.

Power Reserve Performance

The 8800 integrated movement provides an approximate 55-hour power reserve under laboratory conditions, demonstrating stable automatic winding efficiency and energy storage capability.

Movement Inspection Characteristics

The exhibition caseback is the key authentication point. During winding, the gear train operates clearly and visibly. The balance wheel features a black-disc design. Compared with the 2824-based versions, the central structure of the 8800 integrated movement is more open with no unnecessary obstructions. The movement bridge is engraved with VS Factory codes (e.g., 83669886), which can be used as a reference for identification.

Clasp and Bracelet Compatibility

Equipped with an extension clasp for easy adjustment. When set to the smallest configuration, the bracelet supports a maximum wrist circumference of approximately 20cm, suitable for most wearers.

❤️ Contact:

WeChat: Z678cccc

WhatsApp: +86 19189243416

Email: service@timeultra.shop

Website: https://timeultra.shop

Been in the rep game for a few months now. My watch box has a mix of gens and reps, so I feel like I've got a decent idea of what makes a good TD.

I've dealt with a few TDs so far, and honestly, time ultra has been one of the best experiences I've had.

The first thing for me is communication. He replies fast, keeps you updated, and never leaves you wondering what's going on. On top of that, he's super patient. He's always willing to help and never makes you feel like you're bothering him.

Nothing but good things to say. Appreciate everything.

So after spending copious hours on this forum I finally took the plunge and bought my first Rep from Andiot. I have to say it was a great experience. The watch looks incredible and was in my hands after two weeks. The first QC was RL due to issues with Omega lettering on the way to case back, the second one seems great.

Honestly my interest sparked in reps after being on a rolex submariner waitlist for 5 years with no luck. Even after calling every so often I got nothing back. I came across this forum and here we are...

Hi, i saw this advert on a local marketplace. Seller wants 425euro.

but im wondering if it is a genuine vsf or the seller is just messing with me. and also if the watch is in good condition (good meaning that the markers and everything is correct)

Ofcourse im not going to buy it for 425 euros because it is too much but if i can get him down to 350 euros i might do it

3K base,

SW Sapphire dial, hand, DW,

Custom sapphire bezel with side moissanite diamond,

Gen polishing and grinding,

Deep crystal,

Rotor silence,

Waterproof tested.

This video takes a look at the craftsmanship of the VSF Daytona 126158LN V2 Weighted Version, with a detailed comparison between the Dandong 4131 and Shanghai 4131 movements.

Weight

• Standard weight: 135–137g

• A variance of 1–2g due to bracelet sizing is normal

External Details

• High-temperature fired ceramic bezel with platinum-filled numerals

• Light champagne sunburst dial with correct color tone

• Chamfered hour markers and polished hands

• Rounded-edge sapphire crystal

Clasp Authentication Points

• Flat-top “A” engraving

• Dog-head hallmark with visible tongue detail

• Security dot beneath the olive hallmark

• Deep and crisp clasp engravings

Movement Comparison

Dandong 4131

• Central-mounted shock absorber

• Perlage finishing

• Gold-colored engraved text

• Dark red reduction wheel

• Superior finishing and gear detailing

Shanghai 4131

• Gourd-shaped shock absorber

• Printed engravings

• Bright red reduction wheel

Key Identification Points

1. Verify the weight (135–137g)

2. Check clasp hallmarks and engravings

3. Confirm a genuine Dandong 4131 movement:

• Central shock absorber

• Gold-colored engravings

• Dark red reduction wheel

• Correct serial engraving at 6 o'clock position

In love with this thing lately. Gotta highlight the lume.

Please do ignore the scratches on the bracelet, but they come with loving and using the watch a lot and having a very playful cat hahaha. I don't mind them personally, they're the signature of me having liked and worn something enough for my life to leave its impact on that watch, too.

What's up, rep fam? Today we're answering the question that's been haunting everyone out there:

Who makes the best 12-series Submariner?

u/Savoury from RWI gathered 7 watches – ARF, CPLUS, GEN, QF, RICH, RWF, and VSF – and put them through the wringer. Case, bezel, dial, hands, crystal, date, movement, crown, bracelet, and even price got scored. I include here a massive photo album so you can see with your eyes and judge based on your preferences.

350 points up for grabs. No bias. No brand loyalty. Just cold, hard facts... and a few questionable metaphors.

Let's get into it.

The Methodology

He didn't care who built it nor about Rolex's R&D budget or their history. The only question: Who makes the best Sub right now, for your money?

Every watch judged by the same criteria. Gen included, because where's the fun otherwise?

Points awarded per category. Some weigh more than others. Price is factored in because we compare everything else that way

Case – The Suit

If the dial is the face, the case is the suit. And honestly? The air is thin up here. From 30cm away, you won't spot a difference.

Winner: GEN (80/90) – but not perfect. RICH and VSF are right on its heels (77/90 each). Some reps actually have better brushing in certain spots. Funny how that works.

Factory	Score (90)
ARF	72
CPLUS	73
GEN	80
QF	62
RICH	77
RWF	72
VSF	77

Dimensions

No points here. But for the data nerds:

ARF	CPLUS	GEN	QF	RICH	RWF	VSF
Thickness (mm)	12.6	12.5	12.4	12.7	12.4	12.5
Diameter (mm)	40.5	40.5	40.5	40.5	40.5	40.5
Weight (g)	156.3	156.4	158.9	161.1	157.6	156.4

All within a hair's breadth. Literally.

Dial – The Face

Remember the floating "m"? Those days are over. Now we're arguing about the tiny little schlong sticking out of the top-left corner of the m. 😄

Observations:

• GEN print is the "chubby" one – slightly compressed, not exactly elegant.
• VSF and RICH have the most 3D appearance.
• RICH actually lacks the little protrusion on the "m", and honestly, it looks cleaner.
• The coronet at 6 o'clock is FAT on the gen

Winner: VSF (37/40), with RICH and GEN tied at 36/40.

Factory	Score (40)
ARF	34
CPLUS	30
GEN	36
QF	30
RICH	36
RWF	30
VSF	37

Hands

Even Rolex is just cooking with water. Stamp marks visible on gen too.

What stood out:

• CPLUS and RWF have extremely fine edges, genuinely excellent.
• VSF is a bit too sharp for his taste.
• Center pinion: ARF and RICH do it best. VSF is closest to gen but creates a "bullseye" look.

Winner: CPLUS and RWF tie (10/10 each).

Factory	Score (10)
ARF	8
CPLUS	10
GEN	9
QF	8
RICH	9
RWF	10
VSF	8

Bezel – The Eyebrows & Jawline

This is where the wheat separates from the chaff. Especially the pearl.

Pearl breakdown:

• ARF: Glue residue, sits too high.
• CPLUS: Weird color, oversized frame.
• GEN: Dent in the frame, but edge is beautifully defined.
• QF: Too rounded, pip too "full."
• RICH: Sharply defined, pip not bulbous – excellent.
• RWF: Pip looks like it shrunk in the wash.
• VSF: Very similar to RICH, also excellent.

Winner: VSF (37/40), with RICH and GEN tied at 36/40.

Factory	Score (40)
ARF	30
CPLUS	31
GEN	36
QF	31
RICH	36
RWF	31
VSF	37

Crystal

Just some cool observations:

LEC (Laser-Etched Crown) tells you a lot about the AR coating.

• Blue AR tint? VSF wins – reflects noticeably less.
• Neutral AR? RICH takes it, edging out QF.

Both are "correct" as even gen varies.

Date – The Window & The Print

Texture comparison:

• GEN: Its gen, what else to add?
• ARF: Subtle, clean edges, glossy print.
• CPLUS: Eggshell texture, frayed edges.
• QF: Rough, messy, with black specks.
• RICH: Deliberately textured, sharp edges, thick print.
• RWF: Damn close to gen, but numbers look like they were painted by someone with a tremor (may be a QC issue).
• VSF: Eel-smooth.

Winner: RICH (35/40).

Factory	Score (40)
ARF	31
CPLUS	32
GEN	33
QF	31
RICH	35
RWF	31
VSF	29

Movement

Closed caseback, so this is mostly aesthetics.

Quick takes:

• DD3235 has a solid rep for reliability.
• JH3235 is too new to judge long-term.
• SH... well, it's SH.

Aesthetics winner: GEN (10/10) – obviously. Best clone finish: JH3235 base + RWF rotor would be the dream combo.

Factory	Score (10)
ARF (SH3235)	8
CPLUS (DD3235)	8
GEN	10
QF	7
RICH (JH3235)	9
RWF	8
VSF (VS3235)	7

Crown

Genuine isn't always better.

• RICH: Sharply defined, tips are cleaner and crisper than gen.
• VSF: Beautifully formed "bumps."
• GEN: Has depth, but RICH edges it out.

Winner: RICH, VSF, and GEN tie (18/20).

Factory	Score (20)
ARF	16
CPLUS	17
GEN	18
QF	16
RICH	18
RWF	17
VSF	18

Bracelet & Clasp

The part that's on your wrist 24/7. Brushing? Everyone's pretty much indistinguishable from gen now.

Where things fall apart:

• Screws: Visible tool marks on many. Some have "halos" around the slots from post-polishing.
• VSF clasp has a visible weld seam inside. Why? God knows.
• QF still has rust issues (same as their GMTs).
• Glidelock: RICH is too tight, overdone tolerances. ARF and QF feel rough.

Winner: CPLUS, GEN, RICH, RWF tie (80/90).

Factory	Score (90)
ARF	76
CPLUS	80
GEN	80
QF	73
RICH	80
RWF	80
VSF	79

Price – The Elephant in the Room

Factory	Price (approx.)	Rating
ARF	$500	10/10
CPLUS	$500	10/10
GEN	$11,000+	2/10
QF	$500	10/10
RICH	$500	10/10
RWF	$500	10/10
VSF	$500	10/10

Final Scores

Factory	Total (340)
🥇 RICH	310
🥈 GEN	304
🥉 VSF	302
4. CPLUS	291
5. RWF	289
6. ARF	285
7. QF	268

A remarkably close finish. RICH takes the crown on the scorecard thanks to strong all-around performance and unbeatable value.

The takeaway? If you want the "closest to gen" without considering price, GEN wins most of the time. But if value matters? RICH and VSF are the kings.

The Verdict

There is no single "best" Submariner.

The best one is the one that fits your taste, your priorities, and your budget. For Savoury RICH took it on value and finishing. For others, VSF's crystal and dial win. Some still swear by Clean.

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	GEN	RICH (🥇)	VSF (🥈)	CPLUS
Case Score	80/90	77/90	77/90	73/90
Bezel Score	36/40	36/40	37/40	31/40
Dial Score	36/40	36/40	37/40	30/40
Hands Score	9/10	9/10	8/10	10/10
Date Score	33/40	35/40	29/40	32/40
Movement	10/10 (gen)	9/10 (JH3235)	7/10 (VS3235)	8/10 (DD3235)
Crown Score	18/20	18/20	18/20	17/20
Bracelet Score	80/90	80/90	79/90	80/90
Price Rating	2/10	10/10	10/10	10/10
TOTAL	304	310	302	291

So, who has the best Sub?

Honestly? You decide. That's the beauty of this hobby.

Now go check your QC pics, buy from Trusted Dealers, and enjoy the watch that makes you happy.

Yesterday I received 2 watches from Mr. Adu.
One Dayton Ghost with withe gold plating and a GMT Pepsi, both from VSF.
They are terrific! The gold plated job is well done, and at the moment i dont have any complain.
Mr Adu pretty fast in everything, very good comunication, the gold plating takes 9 days, and the shipping was with fedex, so in 9 days i got my watches in hand.
Prices:
Pepsi $540
Ghost $650
gold plating $300
Insurance $60 (optional)
Shipping $75 (cost a little more with fedex to my country) the disadvantage of living in the 3rd world ..
I think the prices are pretty good, in some watches have better prices than Angela and Phoenix and in some not.
To sum up.. very good experience, i recommend it 100%, great TD

Picked up this custom Panda chrono project from an HK watchmaker contact last month to replace a stock factory piece that was bugging me. If you handle gens regularly, the flat center posts on rep hands and that thick milky ring around the crystal edges are instant dead giveaways. This one completely cleans up the aesthetics.

Swapped the stock glass for a Deep crystal which completely deletes that annoying milky outer halo. Put in a custom SW white dial for the true optic white base and correct sub-dial reflectivity, paired with Buff hands featuring true 3D pinned center posts and used a full custom cnc bezel. The entire mid-case was disassembled for manual casework to match gen geometry—softening the sharp factory corners, deepening the hand-chamfered lugs, and throwing down a high-concentration mirror polish along the case flanks. The rehaut engraving depth was optimized, re-aligned, and mirror-polished. The 4130 movement got a full bench overhaul: deep teardown, ultrasonic wash, premium micro-lubrication, and a complete silent-rotor treatment to kill the typical replica rattle. CNC Ceramic bezel upgrade is perfectly aligned with the correct platinum-dust geometric indentation depth in my opinion. Happy for the results ;-)

Ciao a tutti, mi serve aiuto urgentemente per trovare dei pezzi di ricambio per l’orologio del titolo.
Ho comprato, alcuni mesi fa, l’orologio scritto nel titolo, ma sfortunatamente mi è caduto a terra battendo la corona sul pavimento. Non riuscendo più a svitare la corona, ho portato l’orologio presso un orologiaio di fiducia, il quale, dopo averlo smontato, ha rilevato un danno al filetto della corona e al filetto del tubo della corona. Ma lui non ha questi due pezzi di ricambio.
Dove posso trovarli?
Ho provato su Ali Express ed effettivamente qualcosa c’è, ma nelle varie descrizioni della compatibilità, parlano di submariner 116610 (cioè quello con la ghiera nera per intenderci). Non so però se questi pezzi sono compatibili come dimensioni, con il 126610. Qualcuno può aiutarmi a trovare corona e tubo corona compatibili con 126610 LV per favore?
Grazie a tutti quelli che vorranno aiutarmi

Ciao a tutti, ho acquistato qualche anno fa questo sub 16610, su marketplace di Facebook, non l’ho pagato molto mi pare 250€, la factory non era dichiarata. Che ve ne pare?

Just received this VSF V3 Pepsi, and I have to say I absolutely love it.

The watch looks incredibly sharp, and it wears amazingly well on the Oyster bracelet. The finishing, bezel, and overall feel have really impressed me so far.

Definitely one of my favorite pickups. What do you guys think?

Picked up this beauty for just over $200 USD ($287 CDN) from China_Good_Watch. Communication was great! I actually clicked on the wrong color (Couldn’t really tell from the pics and the color wasn’t specified, just a number) and before shipping, they made asked if I chose mint green to which I replied No! Grey! So they shipped grey! Took about two weeks to Canada, although they said a month. This piece looks really good to my untrained eye. Super quiet! Keeps good time. Lume is great.

How’d I do?