Key Features of the Rolex Submariner
Before comparing the super clone and the real Rolex Submariner, it's essential to understand the key features of the genuine watch:
- Case and Material: Made of 904L Oystersteel, the Submariner’s case is highly resistant to corrosion and scratches.
- Movement: Powered by the in-house Caliber 3235 (or 3135 in older models), offering precise timekeeping and a 70-hour power reserve.
- Bezel: Features a ceramic bezel with a unidirectional rotation for dive timing.
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with a Cyclops lens for date magnification.
- Water Resistance: Tested to a depth of 300 meters (1,000 feet).
- Luminescence: Chromalight display provides a blue glow for enhanced visibility in low light.
Rolex Submariner Super Clone: Overview
Super clone Rolex Submariners are high-quality replicas designed to mimic the aesthetics and functionality of the original. Unlike standard replicas, super clones use premium materials and advanced manufacturing techniques, offering a near-identical experience to the genuine watch.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Super Clone vs. Real
1. Materials and Build Quality
- Real Rolex Submariner:
- Constructed with 904L Oystersteel, which is exclusive to Rolex and highly resistant to corrosion.
- Features a solid-link Oyster bracelet with a patented Glidelock clasp for precise adjustments.
- Super Clone Submariner:
- Premium super clones also use 904L stainless steel, making them visually indistinguishable from the original.
- Bracelets are often well-crafted but may lack the same robustness and finishing as the real Glidelock system.
Verdict: While high-quality super clones come close in material and appearance, the finishing and durability of the genuine Rolex remain superior.
2. Movement
- Real Rolex Submariner:
- Equipped with the Caliber 3235 (or 3135), offering unparalleled precision, durability, and a 70-hour power reserve.
- Certified as a Superlative Chronometer, with an accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day.
- Super Clone Submariner:
- Typically features Swiss or Japanese automatic movements, such as ETA 2824-2 or Miyota 9015.
- These movements provide reliable timekeeping but lack the intricate engineering of Rolex’s in-house calibers.
Verdict: The authentic Rolex movement is unmatched in precision and craftsmanship, while super clones provide adequate but less advanced alternatives.
3. Aesthetics and Detailing
- Real Rolex Submariner:
- Every detail is flawless, from the laser-etched Rolex crown on the sapphire crystal to the precision of the bezel markers.
- Features perfectly aligned elements, such as the date window, lume plots, and bezel numerals.
- Super Clone Submariner:
- High-end super clones replicate these details exceptionally well, including the etched crown, bezel markings, and Cyclops lens magnification.
- However, minor imperfections may become noticeable upon close inspection, such as slightly uneven lume or alignment issues.
Verdict: Super clones excel in replicating aesthetics but fall short of the perfection achieved by the genuine Rolex.
4. Water Resistance
- Real Rolex Submariner:
- Offers 300 meters (1,000 feet) of water resistance, making it suitable for professional diving.
- Super Clone Submariner:
- Water resistance varies; some high-end models claim up to 100 meters, but few can match the genuine Submariner’s performance.
Verdict: For diving or serious water activities, the authentic Rolex is the only reliable choice.
5. Price
- Real Rolex Submariner:
- Prices start around $10,000 to $15,000, depending on the model and condition.
- Super Clone Submariner:
- Prices range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the quality and manufacturer.
Verdict: Super clones offer a cost-effective alternative for those who admire the design but cannot justify the price of an authentic Rolex.
Who Should Consider a Super Clone Submariner?
Super clones are ideal for:
- Watch enthusiasts who want the look of a Rolex without the financial commitment.
- Individuals looking for a daily wear watch that mimics luxury without the risk of loss or theft.
- Buyers seeking a short-term substitute while saving for the real thing.
Ethical and Legal Considerations
While Rolex super clones are attractive for their affordability and craftsmanship, it’s essential to acknowledge the ethical and legal concerns associated with replicas:
- Intellectual Property: Replicas violate the intellectual property rights of luxury brands like Rolex.
- Resale Value: Unlike genuine Rolex watches, super clones hold no resale value.
- Legality: In many countries, selling or purchasing copyright goods is illegal.
Recommendation: If budget permits, investing in a genuine Rolex is always the best choice. The authenticity, craftsmanship, and prestige of the real Submariner are unparalleled.
Final Thoughts: Super Clone vs. Real
The Rolex Submariner super clone offers an impressive alternative for those who admire the iconic design but cannot afford the genuine article. High-quality replicas can mimic the aesthetics, weight, and functionality of the original, but they cannot replicate the engineering brilliance, durability, and prestige of a real Rolex.
For those seeking the best of both worlds, a super clone can be a satisfying solution. However, for purists and collectors, the authentic Rolex Submariner remains the ultimate choice.