What Are Super Clone Watches? The Definitive 2025 Buyer’s Guide

⚡ Quick Verdict (TL;DR)

If you don’t have time to read the full 3,000-word guide:

Super Clone Watches are the highest tier of replicas, indistinguishable from genuine luxury watches to the naked eye.

• Top Factories: Clean Factory (Rolex), VS Factory (Omega/Panerai), PPF (Patek), ZF (AP/IWC).
• Best Movements: Dandong 4130/3235 (72h Reserve).
• Key Features: Real 904L steel, ceramic bezels, and sapphire crystals.

Our Advice: Avoid cheap $100 fakes. True Super Clones cost $500+.

1. What Exactly is a Super Clone Watch?

If you are new to the world of replicas, the terminology can be confusing. You will see terms like “AAA”, “1:1”, “Swiss Grade”, and “Super Clone” thrown around loosely. But what do they actually mean?

The Definition
A Super Clone Watch is a replica that has been strictly reverse-engineered from a genuine prototype.

• The Process: The factory purchases the genuine watch (e.g., a Rolex Submariner worth $15,000) and disassembles it completely. Every single part—case, dial, hands, screws, and gears—is 3D scanned and measured to micron-level precision (0.001mm).
• The Materials: Unlike cheap fakes made of alloy or plastic, super clone watches use the exact same materials as the Swiss brands: 904L Stainless Steel, Sapphire Crystal, Swiss Super-Luminova, and High-Tech Ceramic.
• The Movement: This is the biggest differentiator. Super Clones do not use generic Asian movements. They use “Clone Movements” (like the Dandong 4130) where the internal architecture is identical to the Rolex Calibre. This means the winding feel, time setting direction, and power reserve match the genuine watch.

The “NWBIG” Concept
In the collector community, the best super clone watches are labeled NWBIG (Not Worth Buying In Genuine).
This means the replica is so close to the original (95%-99% accurate) that buying the genuine watch is considered a waste of money unless you are buying for investment purposes.

• Example: The Clean Factory Rolex Daytona is considered NWBIG because the visual difference is invisible to the naked eye, yet it costs 5% of the genuine price.

The Tier List (Don’t Get Scammed)
Understanding the tiers will save you money and embarrassment.

• Tier 1: Super Clone (The Best)
  • Price: $500 – $1,200+
  • Factories: Clean, VS, ZF, PPF, 3K, BBR.
  • Characteristics: Functional complications (Chronograph, Moonphase, GMT), correct case thickness, real ceramic/carbon. Can fool experts on the wrist.
• Tier 2: AAA / High Grade
  • Price: $200 – $400
  • Factories: BP, EWF, GMF, TW.
  • Characteristics: Good looking exteriors, but standard movements (Asian 2824/2836). Often thicker than genuine. Good for casual wear but has “tells.”
• Tier 3: Chinatown / Dhgate (The Worst)
  • Price: $50 – $100
  • Characteristics: Wrong materials (zinc alloy), quartz movements ticking like quartz, fake sub-dials that don’t work. Instant call-out.

Myth Busting: “Swiss Made Replica”
You will see websites claiming “Swiss Made Replica” or “Grade 1 Swiss.”

The Truth: There is no such thing as a replica made in Switzerland. All super clone watches are made in China (Guangzhou/Shenzhen). “Swiss Grade” is just a marketing term used by scammers to charge $1000+ for a $300 watch. The best replicas come from the factories we list in this guide (Clean, VS, etc.).

2. The “Big 5” Factories: Who Makes the Best Super Clone Watches?

The super clone watch industry is not one giant factory. It is a network of specialized workshops, each famous for different brands. Knowing which factory makes what is the key to getting a good watch.

Here are the undisputed kings of the market in 2025.

1. Clean Factory (The Rolex King)

• Best For: Rolex Daytona, Submariner, GMT-Master II.
• The Reputation: Clean started as a bezel maker (“Clean Bezel”), so their ceramic inserts are the best in the world. Their platinum coating technology is unmatched.
• Why Buy: If you want the most visually accurate Rolex super clone watch, especially for colored models like the “Hulk” or “Pepsi,” Clean is the only choice.
  • Signature Model: Rolex Daytona 116500LN Panda.

2. VS Factory / SBF (The Movement Master)

• Best For: Omega Seamaster, Panerai, Rolex Submariner/Datejust.
• The Reputation: VS Factory (also known as SBF) focuses on Movement Technology. They produce the best “Clone Movements” in the industry (VS3235, VS8500, VS9000). Their movements are smoother, quieter, and more reliable than anyone else.
• Why Buy: If you prioritize reliability and winding feel. Their Omega Seamaster “Summer Blue” and Panerai Carbotech models are legendary.
  • Signature Model: Omega Seamaster Diver 300M.

3. ZF Factory (The Audemars & IWC Expert)

• Best For: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (15400/15500), IWC Portugieser, Patek Philippe Aquanaut.
• The Reputation: ZF is one of the oldest and most consistent factories. They excel at case finishing and dial texture (“Tapisserie” patterns).
• Why Buy: For dress watches and integrated bracelet sports watches. Their IWC Portugieser thickness (12.3mm) is a marvel.
  • Signature Model: IWC Portugieser Chronograph.

4. PPF / 3K Factory (The Patek Specialists)

• Best For: Patek Philippe Nautilus (5711/5712), Aquanaut (5167/5168).
• The Reputation: These two factories (often collaborating) solved the biggest problem with Patek replicas: Thickness. They engineered the Clone 324/240 movements to achieve the genuine 8.3mm-8.5mm case profile.
• Why Buy: If you want a Patek that actually slides under a cuff.
  • Signature Model: Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711.

5. APS Factory (The New Challenger)

• Best For: Audemars Piguet (15710 Diver, 26420 Chronograph).
• The Reputation: APS is famous for their Integrated 3120/4401 Movements. They focus on mechanical accuracy, making sure the balance wheel is in the correct position.
• Why Buy: For AP Divers and Chronographs with functional Flyback mechanisms.
  • Signature Model: AP Royal Oak Offshore 15710.

Summary Table: Factory Cheat Sheet

Brand	Best Factory	Why?
Rolex	Clean / VS	Best Bezel (Clean) / Best Movement (VS)
Omega	VS Factory	Best Co-Axial Clone Movement
Panerai	VS Factory	Best Case & P9000 Clone
Audemars Piguet	ZF / APS	Best Dial (ZF) / Best Movement (APS)
Patek Philippe	PPF / 3K	Best Thickness (Thin)
IWC	ZF / APS	Best Case (ZF) / Best Movement (APS)

---

3. Top 5 Super Clone Watches to Buy in 2025

With thousands of replicas on the market, picking one can be overwhelming. Based on sales data, community feedback (RWI/Reddit), and our own hands-on testing, here are the top 5 super clone watches that are considered “NWBIG” (Not Worth Buying In Genuine) this year.

#1. Clean Factory Rolex Daytona 116500LN (Panda)

• Why it’s #1: The Daytona is the holy grail of watches. Clean Factory’s version features the Dandong 4130 movement, which is widely regarded as the best replica movement ever made. It has a fully functional chronograph, 72-hour power reserve, and is only 12.2mm thick (same as genuine).
• Best Feature: The “Clean V3” ceramic bezel is virtually indistinguishable from the real Cerachrom bezel.
• Link: Read our full review of the Clean Factory Daytona Panda.

#2. VS Factory Omega Seamaster Diver 300M

• Why it’s #2: This is the best “daily beater” super clone watch. VS Factory uses a custom 8800 co-axial clone movement with a black balance wheel. The ceramic wave dial is laser-engraved with incredible depth.
• Best Feature: The ceramic bezel with white enamel scales will never fade or turn yellow.
• Link: Read our full review of the VS Factory Seamaster 300.

#3. Clean Factory Rolex Submariner 126610LN

• Why it’s #3: The Submariner is the most recognizable watch in the world. The Clean Factory V5 version perfects the “Ink Black” dial and the platinum-coated bezel numbers. It now ships with the Dandong 3235 movement (72h reserve).
• Best Feature: The “Solid” feel of the bracelet and the smoothness of the Glidelock clasp.
• Link: Read our full review of the Clean Factory Submariner.

#4. 3K Factory Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5168G

• Why it’s #4: Patek replicas used to be too thick. 3K Factory solved this by cloning the Calibre 324. The result is a watch that is 8.1mm thin, just like the genuine “Jumbo” Aquanaut.
• Best Feature: The gradient blue dial and the ultra-comfortable tropical rubber strap.
• Link: Read our full review of the 3K Factory Aquanaut.

#5. APS Factory Audemars Piguet 15710 Diver

• Why it’s #5: The AP Diver is the ultimate sports watch. APS Factory revolutionized this model with their Integrated 3120 Movement. It’s robust, reliable, and features a functional inner rotating bezel.
• Best Feature: The 3120 clone movement is visible through the caseback and looks 95% like genuine.
• Link: Read our full review of the APS Factory AP Diver 15710.

4. Movement Guide: Dandong vs. Shanghai (The Engine Room)

The most important part of a super clone watch is not the case; it is the movement. If the movement dies, the watch is worthless.
In 2025, two major movement manufacturers dominate the high-end market: Dandong (DD) and Shanghai (SH).

1. Dandong Movement (The Gold Standard)

Dandong (often called VS or N factory movement) creates the best clone movements in the world.

• Famous Calibers: DD4130 (Daytona), DD3235/3135 (Submariner/Datejust).
• Pros:
  • Power Reserve: Massive 70-72 hours. You can leave it for the weekend, and it will still be running on Monday.
  • Stability: Extremely low failure rate. The winding feels “buttery smooth.”
  • Accuracy: Often runs within COSC specs (+/- 5 seconds per day).
• Cons: Expensive. Supplies are sometimes limited.

2. Shanghai Movement (The Runner-Up)

Shanghai (often called VR or SH) is the main competitor.

• Famous Calibers: SH3235, SH4131.
• Pros:
  • Reliability: Very solid. It is a workhorse movement.
  • Decoration: Visually, they look great through a caseback.
  • Price: Usually cheaper than Dandong.
• Cons:
  • Power Reserve: Typically around 40-48 hours.
  • Feel: Winding can feel a bit “gritty” or stiff compared to Dandong.

How to Tell the Difference?

• The Crown Test: When you wind a Dandong movement, it feels almost frictionless. A Shanghai movement has a distinct “clicking” resistance.
• The Power Reserve Test: Fully wind the watch and leave it. If it stops after 2 days (48h), it’s likely Shanghai. If it lasts 3 days (72h), it’s Dandong.

Our Advice:
Always ask for the Dandong version if available (e.g., Clean Factory recently upgraded their Submariners to Dandong 3235). It is worth the extra money for the 72-hour reserve.

5. Materials: 904L Steel, Ceramic & Carbon

Why do super clone watches cost $500+ while DHgate watches cost $50? The answer is in the raw materials.

1. 904L Stainless Steel (The “Rolex Steel”)

Standard watches (and cheap replicas) use 316L steel. It is good, but it has a slightly darker, greyish tone.
Top-tier factories (Clean, VS, ARF) use 904L steel.

• The Look: 904L has a higher nickel and chromium content. When polished, it shines with a distinct “White Gold” luster. It is brighter and whiter than 316L.
• Corrosion Resistance: It is highly resistant to acid and salt water (sweat).
• The Feel: It is harder to machine, meaning the case edges on a 904L replica are usually sharper and more defined.

2. High-Tech Ceramic (Cerachrom)

The bezel on a Submariner or Daytona is made of ceramic.

• Cheap Fakes: Use painted aluminum or low-quality plastic that scratches and fades.
• Super Clones: Use Zirconium Oxide Ceramic. It is sintered at 1500°C. It is virtually scratch-proof.
  • Clean Factory Special: They coat the numbers on the bezel with Platinum PVD. This ensures the numbers stay bright silver and don’t turn grey/black over time.

3. Sapphire Crystal

All super clones use Synthetic Sapphire.

• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale (only diamond can scratch it).
• Clarity: Factories like VS use “Deep Crystal” technology with colorless AR coating, making the glass disappear.

4. Forged Carbon & Bronze

For brands like Richard Mille or Panerai:

• NTPT Carbon: Factories layer hundreds of sheets of carbon fiber to create a random wood-grain pattern. It is ultra-light.
• Bronze: Real marine-grade bronze (CuSn8) is used, which develops a unique patina (oxidation) over time, just like the genuine watch.

6. How to Spot a Scammer & Buy Safely

The super clone watch market is the Wild West. For every honest dealer, there are ten scammers. Here is how to protect yourself.

1. The “Swiss Made” Scam

We said it before, but we will say it again: There are NO replicas made in Switzerland.

• Red Flag: If a website claims their watches are “Swiss Made” or “Grade 1 Swiss” and charges $1,000+, run away. They are selling you a $300 Chinese replica at a 300% markup.
• Reality: All high-end replicas (Clean, VS, etc.) are made in China.

2. The “Box & Papers” Trap

• The Trap: Scammers often show photos of the watch with a full Rolex green box and papers to make it look “official.”
• The Truth: Factories (Clean/VS) do NOT ship watches with boxes. Boxes are sold separately as accessories. If a site includes a box for free, the watch quality is usually low (AAA grade).

3. QC (Quality Control) Photos

A legit dealer will always send you QC Photos before shipping.

• What to look for:
  • Timegrapher Numbers: Check the daily rate (should be +/- 10s/day) and amplitude (250-300 degrees).
  • Alignment: Check if the bezel aligns with the 12 o’clock marker.
  • Date Wheel: Ask them to cycle through the dates to ensure they are centered.
• Warning: If a dealer refuses to send QC pics, do not buy.

4. Payment Methods

• Preferred: Credit Card, PayPal (if available), or Crypto (USDT).
• Avoid: Western Union or Wire Transfer to unknown personal accounts unless the dealer has a rock-solid reputation on forums like RWI.

---

Final Verdict: Are Super Clones Worth It?

Yes. In 2025, the gap between a $15,000 genuine watch and a $600 super clone watch has never been smaller.
With factories like Clean and VS perfecting the art of 904L steel and clone movements, you can enjoy the luxury experience without the financial stress.

Ready to start your collection?

• 👉 Shop Rolex Super Clones
• 👉 Shop Omega Super Clones
• 👉 Shop Patek Philippe Super Clones

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only.