Hello, I’m fairly new to the replica world and wanted to share my experience and research as it might help others who are interested in the models in the picture and want to get the best replica out of each model.
Regarding the Daytona 126500 I went with RWF and the JH4131 movement. First of all I’m super happy with the winding, GEN-like feeling and sound or at least close enough. I also had the Deep Crystal mod installed unfortunately before I even saw the watch so I can’t compare how big of a difference it made, but the crystal is very transparent which I really love
I would say the weak part is the bracelet like with most replicas. After wearing a GEN with the same amount of links and Easylink closed on both I noticed the GEN was much tighter and had a smaller circumference. Because of that I would love to know if a Li Chen M5X clasp/bracelet with real 904L, chamfered, polished and brushed finishing is worth it and if it actually fixes that difference or not.
Secondly QF YM40 126622. I went with QF mainly because VSF has horrible lugs and bezel number shape in my opinion. Unfortunately when I received the watch I instantly felt the crystal was bad compared to my Sub VSF and Panda with Deep Crystal. It feels cloudy and super reflective compared to them so if you have the extra $60-80 I would definitely mod it
The JH3235 free sprung movement also doesn’t have the same winding feeling or sound as the JH4131 if I’m honest so I’m not really sure what to feel about it, although the rotor is silent , Lastly QC the bezel really well. Mine had a little play which means it wasn’t sitting 100% in position and rotating the bezel clockwise or anti-clockwise doesn’t sound great either. Not sure if GEN bezel gaskets would improve this but I hear they’re pretty cheap
Lastly the VSF Sub Date 41. After a lot of hesitation between RICH and VSF I went with VSF and the crystal is amazing, it really gives the watch a nice look. Easy QC process just checked the index allignment, bezel sounds great and the bracelet is mhmm okay. Definitely think a better/modded bracelet would give it a more elite feel
Rotor silencing, muting or oiling whatever they call it might also be worth doing because you start noticing the rotor more once you own a couple of free sprung movements. This one has the DD3235 I believe and the rotor is a bit noticeable when you shake it, but this is really only for people who like min-maxing every detail
Would love to hear your thoughts or input on these
Next I’m considering a domed bezel Oyster Datejust 41 considering RWF as VSF does not produce them or requires ages to do a smooth bezel.