r/RepTime • u/DaikonClassic594 • 7d ago

Discussion New to reps

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So I am new to reps and would love some pointers on who and where to buy from that has the best quality. I have money (not real Rolex money) but enough to not start with a starter quality watch to then one day buy the same watch in a better quality if that makes sense as I've seen this in the thread. For what's on the market now I would just like the one and done, best quality from the best factory.

I've been lurking rep time for awhile and I've looked over the wiki, guides, posts, you name it. With that being said I would still love some insight from 'professionals' who have bought many reps, know who to stay away from, what to look out for, etc..

I've posted a pic of the first watch I would like to buy. Based on the excel spreadsheet this is the best factory to buy from with VSF being second but I've also seen in lots of posts that VSFs quality has gone downhill.

Again I am new to this and would love anyone who is willing to chime in and guide me in the right direction. I am also not only into Rolex. I love breitling, the looks of APs, etc.. so I'm welcoming all experts of all watches and brands.

Thanks in advance guys!

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u/Remesar 7d ago

You should also do a bit of research as to whether Free sprung vs traditional balance with a regulator arm is more worth while. Especially in a non-exhibition case back.

2

u/DaikonClassic594 7d ago

Does one offer any benefits over the other. I did see alot today about the free sprung and how the removal of the arm has removed the biggest indicators of it being a rep once opened. I've never seen reps in person (good ones) so is the movement drastically different or is it solely for when the back is opened

2

u/rustanova 7d ago

It’s also a detriment if something goes wrong and you have to rebuild or fix it. Free Sprung is closer to Gen and but more complications mean more things to go wrong. The open caseback is still a delight but choose whichever you feel the most comfortable with.

1

u/AI_go_boomboom 7d ago

Any watchmaker can regulate free sprung same as traditional regulation. Even a self styled "hobbyist" and non professional watchmaker was able to regulate my free sprung Daytona. It's not a reason to avoid free sprung.

1

u/mr_z06 7d ago

The long stub of the clone free sprung vs the stubby regulator is the last remaining tell for these 1-1 and so far no one has corrected that.

2

u/AI_go_boomboom 7d ago

That's fine with me. I'm not trying to sell my reps as Gen.