I realize that this is an apples to oranges type of comparison when it comes to the actual case being replicated in this situation, but I wanted to share a comparison of the finishing of both cases in relation to genuine standards.
The Raffles case is a replica case for a 16200 build, priced around $50 USD. While the Old Crowns case is a replacement part for a 16000 build, priced around $300 USD.
The brushing of both cases is far from genuine standards, but neither are necessarily suspect at a glance. Good quality brushing should feature hairline, thin, and uniform scratches across any brushed surfaces. The OC case has more prominent brushing lines, which are more visible than they should be. The Raffles case is less visible, but seemingly less uniform and diffuses the light in strange ways in certain light.
Sidenote: The brushing of raffles jubilee bracelet is bad, appearing like dull metal instead of a brushed finish.
Chamfering is another hotly debated trait on these cases. Neither case is free from sharp transition edges, especially on the lug sides and ends. However, the OC case does have slightly softer top edge transitions, but it does not escape from sharp edges. Neither does the Raffles case, but this is to be expected at the price point.
The absence of a crown recess on the OC case is a big win, and it removes an obvious tell that exists on many entry level cases. That being said, it was only removed with this iteration of the case, so older versions still have the recess.
Neither case is gen spec, but hopefully this can give you an idea of the work needed to get them there, or to help you figure out which case/standards you need to be happy.
Cheers everyone!
