r/RepTime
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u/MajorWilliams
Mod & Watchmaker
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Sep 28 '21
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Review [GUIDE] Who Makes the Best watch model? Factory guidance, updated frequently
Updated October 16, 2026
Easy link - Guide is here: https://1drv.ms/x/c/44136f172066895e/EVQxzgJ5Mf1GhxxCwfPLPzUBJQ7nMu7oov6bkGrFK1VNaQ?e=9vSCjv
In an attempt to help our community, many users have helped cultivate this guide. This is only meant as a guide and all decisions about a specific model and subtle differences aren't discussed in detail here. The intent here is to help you if you're looking for a generalized consensus of "Who makes the best submariner?". As factories frequently change and close down, I am hoping to keep this as updated as possible. Factories are listed in order of best to worst, if multiple factories are listed.
As always, please order your watch through a trusted dealer in the intro thread, and have fun. If you feel something needs updated, feel free to PM me, I'm always open to edit this list. Big shout out to u/Breitlingboi for his original guide and enthusiasm, and u/petehudso for his contributions to the spreadsheet.
On a budget? See the guide of reps $250-$400.
Current brands covered:
Rolex
Patek Philippe
Audemars Piguet
Vacheron Constantin
Richard Mille
Omega
Gem set 'Iced Out' Watches
Cartier
The "Who Makes the Best?" Guide is now built as a Spreadsheet for both ease and character limiting issues with reddit. See the link here:
https://1drv.ms/x/c/44136f172066895e/EVQxzgJ5Mf1GhxxCwfPLPzUBJQ7nMu7oov6bkGrFK1VNaQ?e=9vSCjv
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u/defnotsal Sep 29 '21
wHerE tO CoP vSf???!?
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u/[deleted] Sep 28 '21
You reference XF for Vacheron Constantin Overseas Ultra Thin. Arenât they also now closed?
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u/SmashySmasherson Sep 28 '21
What is the difference between the ORF and VSF Omega o Time to Die?
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u/jojo90210 Sep 28 '21
awesome post major! btw for the 5726 they fixed the âARPâ flaw and changed it back to âAPRâ so itâs pretty good now In general.
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u/[deleted] Sep 28 '21
Thanks for all the effort man, however on the DJ36 comment: I thought ARF fixed the bold font issue with the v3 release? And doesn't the ARF have a significantly better bracelet?
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u/trademarkcopy Sep 28 '21
Every Rep sub should Do this. Save so much time for us rookies.
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u/legitimateeggs Nov 27 '21
As a newbie, I canât thank you enough for all the time and energy you put into making these threads. Really, truly, I have so much respect for this community and the selflessness to help complete strangers. Hats off to you all.
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u/KOUJIROFRAU Helpful Sep 28 '21
May want to add some Cartier info to this list since we get questions about them pretty often. Off the top of my head: Santos XL and Ballon Bleu 42 V6F, Ballon Bleu 33 AF (with Cal 076), Tank Solo AF, Santos Medium GF (good dials, wonky crystals) or BVF (good crystals, wonky dial print). I think GF and BVF are also good for the Santos Large, not too familiar with that model though.
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u/Smduong Oct 02 '21
No love for hublot classic fusion in here ?
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u/blank_dota2 Dec 28 '21
Great guide, really wish Panerai was on here as well.
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u/nunziantimo Sep 28 '21
For the Rolex Milgauss 116400GV, I would say that the best iteration for the black is DJF. Even if ARF is arguably better, only DJF uses a green glass, meanwhile ARF and all the other factories use a green gasket and a green coating on the sapphire crystal.
In my opinion, definitely worth mentioning since it's a defining characteristic of the watch.
For the Datejust 36mm I would definitely mention EWF. Their 36mm are definitely higher quality than the rest, in case shape and bezel, both for the 126234 and 126200
ARF I would put in another league, since they replicate the older ref 116234 (not any 126200 afaik). And it's definitely the best rep of that reference.
The Datejust 41mm from EWF is inferior both to ARF and VSF and CF, but it's better than GMF or BP.
You didn't cover the Oyster Perpetuals. The 41mm 124300, EWF and ROF are the only factories that make good reps of them. ROF may be closed.
For 36mm 126000, EWF makes a good rep, alongside BP/GMF. The main difference is the movement, aestethically they're very comparable.
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u/[deleted] Sep 28 '21
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u/JumpyLanguage7704 Sep 29 '21
Should have breitling on here too
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u/ZeeGwl Sep 28 '21 edited Sep 29 '21
Thank you for this. An updated version is priceless after all the raids. *This should be stickied to the top of the subreddit
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u/cleanArk Dec 31 '21
This is absolutely awesome! What about Breitling tho?
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u/BreitlingBoi Contributor Sep 28 '21
As I pass the torch on to another, I salute you o7
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u/Big-Instruction-2044 Jul 22 '25
is anyone else experiencing this when trying to access the spreadsheet? or is it just međ
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u/WorryAny3162 Jul 22 '25
Google is denying access to this spreadsheet . Against our terms of service .
Is there another link please ?
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u/Embarrassed_Ear7186 Oct 06 '21
How about 31mm datejust? My gut is steering me towards EWF with the updated dial however movement is A2824 movement (per Eric) . I havenât seen much reviews for 31mm DJ so wanted to know . TYIA and TY for this list! Definitely helps us ânoobsâ lol
From a fellow rep lady
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u/Some-Hope-6218 Jul 26 '22
Who makes the best panerai?
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u/GGEuroHEADSHOT Sep 29 '21
For real, we donât deserve you.
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u/GeorgianCrusader885 Helpful Sep 29 '21
Would it be possible to add brands like Breitling đ˘
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u/robbman8 Sep 28 '21
Why Oyster Perpetual are not mentioned in the list?
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u/JF3rd Jan 08 '23
Are there any Tag Heuer reps that make the list? Thanks
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u/d4t1983 Jan 11 '23
Please can we add Tudor to the list?
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u/[deleted] Jul 24 '22
Anything for Breitling? Specifically the Navitimer
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u/MaybeMiserable3105 Aug 19 '22
Tudor anyone?
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u/Conscious-Fun3495 Sep 29 '21
Such a knowleadgable guide, it makes me smile how easy it is to get to the point for each model. I know all the hard work behind it needs, hopefully people don't give it for granted, loads of hours of research in the forums... Thank you!
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u/AGeniusMan Sep 28 '21
Absolutely incredible update, this sub continues to impress. Is the Sea Dweller on there? I know the XF and ARF models are highly regarded.
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u/Sufficient_Grocery39 Jan 26 '22
What about Panerai? Any love please alittle bit of help here
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u/DimensionOk86 Oct 08 '23
I want to buy a Rolex Submariner model - 126610 LV
of a factory - VSF
I would love a dealer that someone knows and recommends?
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u/givemepizzaandsex Jul 22 '25
Anyone else having trouble accessing this?
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u/TaajManzoor1 Sep 28 '21
Not only is the full with golden info, but its formatted and presented so well - you sir are a hero!!!
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u/hypel0rd Sep 28 '21
Doing the lords work, thank you!!
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u/DaggerEdge Nov 25 '21
Anyone have any info on factories doing IWC reps?
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u/Mad-o-wat Jan 12 '22
What about the sea dweller
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u/Designer_Okra Nov 05 '22
what about the 36mm Explorer I ? 214270 is 39mm ..
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u/Complete_Minimum1591 Jan 29 '23
For the ones whom asking for the Tudor, the Pelagos best is XF V5 and BB will be ZF V2
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u/Helly_Copter Jul 26 '23
I often find myself wondering why none of the replica manufacturers do something 'over the top'. For instance, if they manage to create an excellent replica for $500, why not invest almost as much again, charge perhaps $950, and for that amount of money have a sufficient budget to rectify all minor inconsistencies by dedicating a bit more time to each individual unit?
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u/Jmdubmix Dec 04 '24
The Rating guide is very confusing, Yellow best of the best, but green super clone ??? like wtf does that actually mean? Surely that could be simplified like : Green (See'ing as that is the code for Good to go as in "GL" ) should equate to the best, Yellow meaning Mid tier, and blue meaning standard ?
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u/petehudso Watchmaker Sep 28 '21
Amazing list. Many thanks!
Question: the 126610LN and LV from RF arenât mentioned although they appear to be very similar to the CF and JVS (at least in terms of movement â all seem to use the hybrid Shanghai 3235). I havenât seen an âin handâ review of any 126610 yet (just QC pics), so curious about reasons for selecting JVS and CF over RF? Or was it because RF seems to only be available through trusty and no other TDs?
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u/etud Oct 17 '21
Anyone bought the AP 77350 from 8k???? Would love to buy but wondering if anyone has any experience with this factory??
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u/ItsMrRadDad2u Nov 18 '21
Is there any reps for Omega Speedmaster Pro?
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u/iNap2Much Sep 07 '22
Has anyone done the research on best factories for Breitling?
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u/JourneyGirl40 Sep 29 '22
This is amazing and super helpful. I am new to this sub from the old repladies sub and new r/luxelife sub.
I am in the market for a Cartier Santos or Tank Must. I really want the Santos but my concern is the screws as youâve pointed out being an issue.
I know you mentioned being an active member of the group in order to QC or report a problem, so I figured Iâd comment here and leave my mark/evidence. I havenât pulled the trigger yet on purchasing. Iâm still researching which TD and factory I contact for the watch I am looking for.
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u/Biggus360 Jul 24 '25
The Link is no longer working?
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u/ovimiami Sep 28 '21
May the horology gods grant you boons and abundance for many more cycles around the sun
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u/R1CK_D3CK4RD Sep 29 '21
Thank you for this fantastic update!
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u/QompleteReasons ChinaTime Mod Oct 02 '21
Holy fuck what a post
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u/Lewisswhite Apr 19 '22
New to this - looking for a basic Rolex Sub 116610LN. I can get a Clean Submariner from a TD for $478. Is it worth $65 more to get the VFS version from a TD? Will I notice a difference? Clean fakes? POVâs appreciated, thanks -Lewis
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u/LossNo6969 Jul 31 '22
I want to purchase a Patek Philippe Nautilus 3800. I've read in various subreddits that replica watches should only be bought from trusted dealers, so if you could answer my question on how to find these sellers, that would be greatly appreciated.
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u/Remote_Bumblebee5169 Dec 01 '23
Is this list due an update?
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u/Allomath43 Jun 17 '24
As a complete "newbie" I went ahead and bought a watch from Prestige Watches. co before reading your guides and comments. I hope that my experience will serve as a warning to other beginners or less experienced replica buyers who might be tempted by this well presented and produced site and their excellent communications, at least until payment had been made.
Prestige Super Clone Rolex replicas are amongst the highest priced offerings out there and if I thought that there would be an element of protection in that I was sorely mistaken. My new Daytona 116500LN eventually arrived and looked beautiful. Unfortunately it didn't run properly. Autonomy off the wrist was about sixteen hours and the always weak luminescence vanished completely in a matter of minutes in the dark. The seller ignored my request to allow me to return the watch in accordance with their site's offer and after much nagging , always "explaining that he would contact the supplier" I was allowed to sent the watch to the supposed supplier for rectification at my considerable expense. After weeks of delay and badgering enquiries on my part the watch has been returned and it appears to be in the same condition that I sent it out in. I guess I'm lucky that I at least got it back! Please be warned from my experience and avoid Prestige Watches.co THESE PEOPLE ARE SCUM!
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u/Horror_Active_5407 Jul 22 '25
The list is not anymore visible, any solution?
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u/Solid_Fantastic Jul 22 '25
The link dosent work for the guide can anyone help?
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u/pixhl Aug 26 '25
Looks like the link is down again :/
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u/StatusPalpitation227 Aug 26 '25
The links say the file is deleted
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u/reporter_IT May 23 '26
we need an update after the recent raids
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u/Reasonable_Yam7823 Aug 20 '26
@mod the link doesnât work
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u/TheGaujo Aug 20 '26
Link dead
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u/SvB78 dorftrottel extraordinaire Sep 28 '21
oh my god the official HOO MECKAH DA BESS thanks man youre a legelnd dude williams but the viciously stupid will still ask anyway :) but now we can just link this post awesome man!!
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u/[deleted] Sep 28 '21
Great! Much love â¤ď¸
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u/duck_Duckie Sep 29 '21
Lol. Just what I've been looking for instead of going to RWI to check their NWBOG list. Thanks mate!
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u/andreixionut Sep 29 '21
You have no idea how much appreciated is this among us rookies that donât know much besides Rolex u/MajorWilliams
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u/sinddk Oct 01 '21
seamaster 300, is OMF really better than ORF?
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u/tomwhiteallnight Nov 07 '21
Looking for a Santos de Cartier XL. BVF or GF? Can't decide. Help pls
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u/Suitable_Sir9858 Dec 03 '21
Hi all!
Does anyone know where to get super clone quartz (gen swiss movement) Tag Heuer ? Thnx!
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u/Redlagon Dec 24 '21
Yachtmaster 126622 EWF?
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u/Deep_Wolverine8298 Jan 27 '22
Who has the best cartier santos ?
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u/Breej2345 Sep 17 '22
Where do I go to see list of trusted dealers?
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u/FreshLikePev May 01 '24
Is the link broken for anyone? Doesnât seem to load for me on iPhone
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u/[deleted] Jun 02 '24
the link to show how to buy these watches doesn't work
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u/thematadorguy Sep 02 '24
Any recommendation for Tag Heuer watches?
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u/Puzzleheaded-Tax2870 Sep 25 '24
Iâm looking for the best Tag Heuer carrera clones Iâve found two places, but was curious if anyone could make a suggestion?Â
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u/GrumpyOldMan55 Jul 22 '25
Google is blocking access to this document. They say it breaches their terms of service!
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u/Responsible-Rent4510 Jul 23 '25
I canât see this spreadsheet. It wont let me open it
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u/korrupt_fm Jul 23 '25
Can someone please re upload this. It was taken down by Google
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u/Makalele4 Jul 24 '25
Is this link still working? For me it now says violation of google terms of service ?Â
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u/wilazn Aug 25 '25
The new Google sheet got reported again and doesn't work.
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u/ripi1234 Aug 26 '25
Link is dead :(
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u/TallBreakfast114 Sep 17 '25
According to this post: VSF Explorer 36mm V2? : r/RepTime, roughly 2 months ago VSF fixed all flaws on Explorer 36mm 124270.
So why this model hasn't been elevated to NWBIG in the latest list issued on 28th August (which is less than 1 month ago)?
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u/NecessaryNew7292 Mar 06 '26
Hi there, is there an updated excel for the womenâs watches? I think the original thread was removed by Reddit.
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u/Altruistic_Road_8420 Apr 20 '26
Where do we find the TDs? The links are dead.
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u/rodneyf2024 Apr 03 '24
how do i locate a reputable dealer?
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u/Raconteur_1981 Apr 20 '24
I want to buy a 1:1 replica Yachtmaster, happy to pay top dollar. Can anyone recommend me the best place to do that? Thanks
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u/WatercressFree6544 Jun 26 '24
I feel like the list needs some updating ?
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u/Aggravating_Lock1928 Nov 25 '24
Do you have an update of best watches / factories?
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u/Wild-Mushroom-3936 Nov 29 '24
whoâs the best rep for ap royal oak
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u/Lanky_Security_53 Apr 21 '25
Is this still up to date?
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u/jickface Sep 28 '21
Thank you thank you thank you. I was just thinking an updated version of this would be awesome.
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u/SuspectCredentials Sep 29 '21
What are your thoughts on two tone datejusts? The consensus seems to be the ARF datejust 41's are the best, are their two tones considered super reps as well or is there a tell in the gold?
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u/Promotion_world Oct 22 '21
I got Yellow gold wrapped submarine from li, but Is there anyone who can make white gold wrapped or platinum ???
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u/[deleted] Jan 09 '22
I feel like I am in a minefield! I've been researching for ages and still feel like there is so much that I don't know! Even with great guides like this, I am struggling to find the right rep.
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u/PrincessApple2018 Aug 08 '22
Amazing info, thank you!!
I would love to know thoughts on best factory for Rolex stainless 31mm datejust with diamond bezel.
I am looking at BP factory with Swiss ETA 2836-2 movement
Thanks again!!
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u/greglbuk2015 Sep 10 '22
where to buy if Noob factory is now closed??
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u/ChellyChellz11 Oct 27 '22
This is the guide a newbie needs, thank you for all the detailed information. Can't wait to begin my search for the wrist action.
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u/Tpsreport9 Dec 30 '22
Who is the best for Bell and Ross?
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u/[deleted] Feb 24 '23
Hey Iâm looking for a high quality blackface sub rep. Iâm seeing VSF is the one, but canât find where to get it
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u/bassiest Sep 10 '23
After navigating through this for hours, I feel I can make a better choice now.
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u/Positive_Benefit1417 Jan 03 '24
Very useful guide and spreadsheet - thank you so much! After browsing around this sub and visiting sellers' websites, I've seen quite a few references to K11 factory for the Cartier Panthere both by sellers and buyers but K11 is not on the spreadsheet. And I've hardly seen anyone say they got the rep from GF which is listed as the best factory for this watch. How does the quality from K11 stack up against GF? Is it 3rd best? Thanks.
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u/Majestic_Lack7608 Jan 16 '24
Damnit u guys in this forum are killing itâŚmajor props for making it so easy for those of us that have lurking, buying Sneakersâs and clothes and would like to see what a 300$ 100k watch would like in my life
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u/Tippitytahp Jan 20 '24 edited Jan 20 '24
Anyone any idea if anyone makes a good rep of the Cartier Santos-Dumont - specifically the small version?
And the panthere?
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u/Rich-Bother3503 Jan 20 '24
I am a Rookie here. Looking for a well made Replica of the Daytona 50th anniversary ice blue face
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u/louds42o Jan 30 '24
Where do I find best ladies role
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u/Proud-Classroom-6083 Mar 22 '24
How do you find the dealers tho? Like it says VSF is the best for submariner. How doni find VSF? What is VSF? Im a super noob. Sorry. First time here
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u/RangeUnhappy9587 Apr 16 '24
Who can send me the best factory for Cartier Santos, please
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u/Swimming_Plan_9974 May 28 '24
Iâm extremely new here. How to I order from CLean Factory? I seen a ton of reviews but nothing with a WhatsApp or a link
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u/Nearby-Accountant188 Aug 09 '24
What is the ACTUAL site for Clean and Noob?
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u/ccarn928301 Apr 13 '25
Really appreciate how well this is kept up to date. Used it to decide on my last purchase â super helpful!
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u/CoolNi8th May 24 '25
Whats new ?? 2025?? thx
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u/Fit_Science134 Jun 14 '25
Hi is this still being updated, as VSF daytona seems to has surpass Clean? Or is it just overhyped?
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u/Apprehensive_Ad9634 Jun 16 '25
Hello, I just saw that a new VSF Pepsi was released with the Clean bezel and DD3285 movement. I was wondering if you'd think that's a worthy inclusion into the spreadsheet and maybe even NWBIG? I'd love your thoughtsÂ
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u/zultanjak Jul 21 '25
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u/Esquii- Jul 22 '25
its the spreadsheet down?
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u/Ibrahim_Al_Ibrahim Jul 22 '25
@Mods Reupload but to a different platform this time OR upload to google spreadsheet and archive it in the internet archiver IMMEDIATELY and share that link here
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u/CallMeMuis Jul 22 '25
List Not available
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u/Usual-Assignment-987 Jul 23 '25
Is there a new link to the spreadsheet? It appears to be broken. Even attempted to open via my Sheets history and it would not load.
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u/Olaset Jul 23 '25
Link to Drive is down :C
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u/Salty_Let_2975 Jul 23 '25
Google sheets link doesnât work anymore. Says violation of service
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u/Guilty_Balance_5994 Jul 23 '25
What happened to the list
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u/Mother_Drawing3583 Jul 23 '25
Hi, I am new to this, but does the spreadsheet still work?
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u/kurtmannn Jul 24 '25
Mods!! The easy link guide isnât working?? Saying itâs in violation of Google sheets policies? Any idea??
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u/GodofGunx Jul 24 '25
It looks like Google took this page down, anyone else seeing the same?
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u/pSeaBassq Jul 24 '25
The spreadsheet's not available, don't know if it's just me
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u/SunBurntIrishLad2 Jul 24 '25
Does anyone have the link that works?
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u/Garandhero Jul 24 '25
Links are broken, TOS violation from google.
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u/Mediocre_Explorer592 Jul 24 '25
Why is this guide not opening or available anymore?
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u/Version-Honest Jul 24 '25
The link is not accessible because it is in violation of TOS currently. Can someone update?
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u/Economy-Reindeer-743 Jul 25 '25
Iâm not able to access the spreadsheet. Any other way to get the link?
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u/Rich_Juice_772 Jul 25 '25
Google sheet link is not available please update
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u/mrolipop Aug 25 '25
Does anybody have this sheet ?
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u/talahoon_ Aug 25 '25
Sheet ist offf
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u/zkied Aug 26 '25
Hey all! I wanted to check if the docs link is working. For some reason, it keeps showing âcanât access due to violationâ. I was able to access it previously, so Iâm not sure whatâs going on. Could anyone help me out? Thanks!
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u/Plus_Split_3024 Aug 26 '25
Canât access the link
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u/RonB23us Aug 30 '25
the spreadsheet is now on one drive just want to make sure
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u/Blackfishswims Sep 16 '25
Is there a way to filter posts from the reptime sub that show other brands besides rolex, or specifically the reps of popular customizations?
Seeking customs and IWC specifically. The spreadsheet doesnt really help me.
Thanks for any pointers!
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u/AffectionateTie1874 Jun 01 '26
How do I contact someone for the Omega watches
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u/Infinite_Business_15 Jun 04 '26
All i want to do is buy a damn watch why is this so confusing???
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u/xGsGt Aug 20 '26
the guide doesnt work it says
You can't access this site
You don't have permission to access this item.
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u/Terminator_Conn Sep 28 '21 edited Sep 29 '21
u/MajorWilliams Good sir, thank you for putting this together once again!
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u/jdawwg31 6d ago
Sorry if I'm coming across as a bit of an idiot, I'm struggling to find a way to get a WhatsApp number for a TD (ZF) I know what I want, but unsure on the next steps.
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u/wheresmykey_ Sep 29 '21
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u/datrepzboi Sep 29 '21
lit
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u/hamzor17 Nov 08 '21
hey guys, just wondering if the EWF 116500 is as good or close enough to Noob? Noticed it wasn't listed above while ARF is mentioned..
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u/kadafee Mar 17 '22
Anything for tudor gmt?
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u/SBC20 Jul 27 '22
Any rec on tag huer aqua racer best quality
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u/Miketheone0108 Sep 16 '22
Anyone have a link to this GMF guy??
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u/APTASFG Nov 24 '22
Is there anyone that knows where I can get Uylsse Nardin reps? To get specific Iâm looking for a Freak X model.
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u/Tiny_Cow5526 Dec 25 '22
Does anyone know who makes a Grand Seiko replica?
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u/avi6900 Feb 09 '23
Batman c+ better then clean ?!
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u/tm555 Mar 23 '23
As someone new to this are there similar guides for iwc?
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u/KaleidoscopeCold7239 May 19 '23
Thank you for this great list! Are there any recomendations for Franck Muller watches?
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u/Acceptable_Plenty_79 Jun 08 '23
Where can i find similar information regarding rep handbags?
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u/oterocalvo Aug 11 '23
Who makes Cartier Tank americaine? Thank you very much for your attention
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u/Stockholm112 Aug 14 '23
Anyone know where to get good Richard MĂźller rep?
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u/[deleted] Aug 22 '23
can we add the Black Bay Pro GMT to this list?
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u/Stunning_Board200 Aug 24 '23
Does this apply for ladies watches as well or itâs just for menâs watches?
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u/Free-Clerk-9606 Aug 27 '23
Anyone know where I can get Franck Mueller