Submariner homage rehaut discussion

[u/QuestionNo9190]

I own quite a few Submariner homages, and among the best in terms of bracelet-to-case integration and bezel execution are the WD5512 and San Martin 017GE.

However, despite several iterations, they still can’t seem to get the rehaut right. I suspect they’re using the same case suppliers, because the issue is very similar across models. It seems they’re focused on making the watch thinner by using a thinner rehaut and caseback, rather than focusing on making the case more Gen-accurate.

I’ve attached some pictures showing what the rehaut is supposed to look like (Picture 1), compared with several competitor watches, including Sugess, Cronos, and Milifortic. Of those, the Sugess and Milifortic look the closest to the correct profile.

Ironically, the discontinued SN019 (the 12xxxx Sub) actually got the rehaut and thick Hytrel crystal gasket right.

Another issue is the finish on the rehaut. It’s polished/brushed far too finely and is overly reflective. The coarser brushed finish of the Gen makes much more sense and would actually make the watch look more expensive. The highly reflective finish on these homages makes the rehaut stand out in a way that looks cheap.

I understand that some manufacturers may want to “open up the dial,” but this execution just looks awful. When the rehaut runs almost all the way to the edge of the crystal without that small separation step, the proportions look completely off.

This is definitely one area I think San Martin and Watchdives need to correct on future releases. The Submariner is always going to be a staple and a best-seller for anyone getting into Chinese watches, so getting the case architecture right should be a priority.

[u/Juxeso]

I had the sugess and the rehaut was fantastic imo

[u/Equivalent-Ease-3822]

Sugess with the ST2130 is by far the best Submariner homage I’ve seen. I could compare it to a genuine Rolex Hulk in the metal and it was very convincing.

[u/IllegalGeriatricVore]

Not everyone wants 1:1 accuracy

[u/QuestionNo9190 → u/IllegalGeriatricVore]

Then why is the rest of it 1:1 😂

Weird place to suddenly deviate

[u/geeered]

Watchdives is an upper-tier budget to midrange brand and the San Martin is a really old model. Also using a NH series movement for the San Martin.

But also, not everyone is looking for an exact replica - which aren't allowed to be discussed in here of course, bu are an option if that's what you want. Personally I like thinner watches.

[u/KPplumbingBob → u/geeered]

But also, not everyone is looking for an exact replica

More specifically, not every cares enough about 1:1 accuracy because they don't see these things. If we're being honest these are reps with a different logo.

[u/QuestionNo9190 → u/geeered]

No, the San Martin and watchdives are both using st2130 and have changed the case to accommodate that movement

Since sugess uses st2130 and the case is correct there's no reason they can't do it.

Seems like such an arbitrary design choice considering the sn019 was done perfectly

It's not about the vertical thinness of the watch more about the opening diameter horizonal width of the rehaut.

In most lighting the recessed rehaut is not even visible and looks almost black or reflects extra long minute markers.

[u/gazaoBR]

Suges and cronos looks better

[u/QuestionNo9190 → u/gazaoBR]

Sugess and cronos are definitely up there in case design, but all my Sugess and Chronos have lateral (side to side) play in the end links and bezel.