with 8+ years of experience reviewing high-end Rolex replicas and clone movements.
Is the legendary “VSF Root Beer” back with a vengeance? We conduct a 30-day deep-dive test of the new 176g Tungsten-Weighted version to see if it finally claims the throne.
Quick Verdict (TL;DR)
The “Toy Watch” Feeling is Finally Gone.
If you have been searching for the perfect VSF Watch (specifically the “Root Beer” / 126711CHNR) but held back because replicas felt too light, your wait is over. VSF has released their masterpiece.
- The Model: Rolex GMT-Master II 126711CHNR Replica.
- The Upgrade: The biggest “tell” of old replicas—the lack of density—is fixed. The case now features a Tungsten alloy internal core (high-density, CNC-fitted), hitting 176 grams, virtually identical to the Gen.
- The Verdict: 9.8/10. With the industry-leading DD3285 movement and genuine weight, this is the closest experience to owning a $20,000 watch for a fraction of the price.
Technical Specifications: VSF Weighted vs. Clean Factory
| Feature | Gen (Rolex) | VSF Factory (Weighted) | Clean Factory (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model | 126711CHNR | 126711CHNR (VSF Root Beer) | 126711CHNR |
| Diameter | 40mm | 40mm (Gen Synchronized) | 40mm |
| Weight | ~175g – 178g | 176g (Verified on Scale) | ~145g (Feels Light) |
| Case Material | Oystersteel + Everose Gold | 904L Steel + Tungsten alloy internal core | 904L Steel |
| Movement | Calibre 3285 | Dandong 3285 (DD3285) | Dandong 3285 (DD3285) |
| Power Reserve | 70 Hours | 70+ Hours (Tested) | 70+ Hours |
| Crystal Clarity | Sapphire w/ AR | VSF “Black Hole” Crystal | Standard Sapphire |
Table of Contents
1. Introduction: The Weight Problem
For years, the replica community has been divided. If you wanted a Rolex GMT-Master II, specifically the two-tone “Root Beer,” you had to compromise.
The biggest issue wasn’t the look; it was the feel. Genuine gold is dense. When you pick up a genuine 126711CHNR, it feels substantial. Previous replicas, made of pure steel, were about 30-40 grams lighter. This lack of “gravitas” created a cognitive dissonance—it looked expensive, but felt cheap.
Enter the new VSF Root Beer (Weighted Edition). By utilizing advanced CNC technology to embed high-density Tungsten copper alloy into the case, VSF aims to eliminate the biggest physical “tell” of the replica world.
2. The “Heavy” Revolution: Tungsten Case Architecture
This is the selling point. We stripped the watch down to understand how VSF achieved the 176g weight without making the watch thicker.
- The Science: VSF didn’t just make the case thicker. They used a “sandwich” method where the internal core is a Tungsten alloy (high-density, CNC-fitted), while the outer shell remains 904L stainless steel for that perfect polish.
- Balance: On the wrist, the center of gravity is lower. Standard replicas often feel “top-heavy” or rattle. The VSF Weighted version hugs the wrist with the same confident presence as the genuine article.
- Dimensions: Remarkably, the thickness remains at 12.1mm, matching the genuine specifications perfectly.
3. Visuals: Crystal, Dial & The “Root Beer” Bezel
VSF has always been the King of Crystals, and this model is no exception.
The “Black Hole” Effect
The sapphire crystal on this watch is arguably better than the competition. The cyclops (date window) features a blueish AR coating that creates the famous “Black Hole” effect, making the date legible from almost any angle. The crystal is so clear that sometimes it looks like there is no glass at all.
The Bezel Action
One frequent complaint about older GMT replicas was the loose or “mushy” bi-directional bezel.
The VSF team has overhauled the internal clicking mechanism.
- Tactile Feel: The bezel rotation is tight, crisp, and solid. There is absolutely no play or wobble.
- The Colors: The transition between the Black and Brown ceramic is seamless. The Brown tone (often the hardest to replicate) is muddy and rich, avoiding the overly reddish “cherry” tone found on cheaper versions.
Dial & Hands
The “Maxi Dial” features indices filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova. In the dark, it glows a distinct, cool blue (Chromalight), matching the Gen. The hands are polished to a mirror finish, with no rough edges visible even under a 10x macro lens.
4. The Movement: Why the DD3285 Matters
The VSF Root Beer is powered by the Dandong 3285 (DD3285), which is widely considered the holy grail of GMT movements.
- 70-Hour Power Reserve: Unlike modified ETA movements that barely last 30 hours, this clone movement delivers a genuine weekend-proof power reserve.
- True GMT Function: This is a “True Clone.” The hour hand is independently adjustable. You can jump the hour hand forward or backward to change time zones or set the date, exactly like the genuine Calibre 3285.
- Stability: The DD3285 has a much lower failure rate compared to the older SH3186 movements. It winds smoothly and keeps excellent time (our unit ran at +4s/day).
5. Bracelet & Clasp: The Rose Gold Finish
Two-tone watches live or die by their plating.
- Side Plating: A major concern is “exposed steel” on the sides of the gold links. VSF uses a complete wrapping technique. Even when you bend the bracelet, the sides of the mid-links show Rose Gold, not bare steel.
- The Color: The Everose Gold tone is spot on. It is not too yellow (a common flaw). It has that specific copper-infused warmth that Rolex is famous for.
- The Clasp: The Oysterlock safety clasp snaps shut with a reassuring click. The “Easylink” 5mm comfort extension works perfectly, allowing for quick adjustments on hot days.
6. Competitor Comparison: VSF vs. Clean Factory
Is VSF the only game in town? Let’s compare it to the main rival, Clean Factory (CF).
- Weight: VSF Wins (Hands Down). Clean Factory feels like a toy compared to the 176g VSF.
- Bezel Color: Tie/Slight Edge to Clean. Clean Factory is known for their bezel pigments. However, VSF has closed the gap significantly. Unless you have a Gen next to it, you won’t notice the difference.
- Crystal: VSF Wins. VSF crystals are simply clearer, with better AR coating on the cyclops.
- Feel: VSF Wins. The winding feel, the bezel click, and the wrist weight all favor VSF.
7. Final Verdict: The Best “Root Beer” Ever?
If you are researching the VSF Root Beer because you want a watch that feels as good as it looks, this is the endgame.
The 176g Weighted Edition bridges the final gap between replica and genuine. It solves the psychological issue of a “light” gold watch. Combined with the reliable DD3285 movement and VSF’s superior crystal, this is currently the market leader.
Pros:
- 176g Weight (Game Changer)
- Crystal clarity is best in class
- DD3285 Movement (70h PR)
- Tight, solid bezel action
Cons:
- Gold plating requires care (avoid scratches)
- Slightly more expensive than the non-weighted version
Rating: 9.8/10 (Highly Recommended)
FAQ: Common Questions
Q: Why is it sometimes called the “VSF Root Beer”?
A: This is a common nickname (or community typo) for the “Root Beer” colorway. Whether you search for “Root Beer” or “Root Beer,” you are looking for the same model: the Rolex GMT-Master II 126711CHNR.
Q: Will the Rose Gold plating fade on this VSF replica?
A: It is important to remember this is PVD-plated steel, not solid gold. However, VSF uses a thick plating technique. With normal daily wear, it will last 2-3 years without significant fading. We recommend wiping it down after use to remove sweat and avoiding harsh chemicals or perfumes.
Q: How can I tell if I received the Weighted Version or the Standard Version?
A: The only sure way is to use a scale. The Weighted Version should weigh between 170g and 176g (depending on the number of links). The Standard Version will weigh around 145g. If it feels light in your hand, you likely have the standard version.
Q: Is the VSF Root Beer waterproof?
A: Out of the box, it is splash-proof (rain, hand washing). However, we do not recommend swimming with any replica watch unless you have it pressure-tested by a watchmaker first. The complex case construction makes it safer to keep dry.
Q: Can I swap parts with a Genuine Rolex?
A: Yes, to an extent. The VS3285 movement accepts genuine hands, dials, and date wheels. This makes the VSF a popular base for “Franken” builds (modifying a replica with real parts).
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