Are Clean factory made Rolex replicas the best?

Introduction
The CLEAN Factory (CLEAN) 40mm Submariner 116610LN with a black and gold ("Black Gold") theme has gained significant attention in the replica watch community. Known for its high-quality construction and near-perfect replication of the genuine Rolex, the V5 version with the Dandong 3135 movement is considered one of the best clones available today. But how close is it to the real deal? In this detailed comparison, we examine every critical aspect—case, dial, bezel, bracelet, and movement—to determine whether this rep can truly stand up to the genuine Rolex Submariner.

1. Case & Build Quality​

Material & Finishing​

• Genuine Rolex: Uses 904L stainless steel, known for its superior corrosion resistance and slightly brighter luster. The case is precisely machined with sharp, clean edges and flawless brushing/polishing transitions.
• CLEAN Factory V5: Also uses 904L steel, matching the genuine in material. The case shape, lugs, and crown guards are nearly identical, with excellent brushing and polished bevels. However, some users report that the polishing on the SEL (Solid End Links) is slightly less refined than the gen.

Weight & Feel​

• Genuine Rolex: Weighs approximately 162g due to its solid construction.
• CLEAN V5: Comes very close at ~158-160g, making it almost indistinguishable in hand feel.
  
  
  

2. Bezel & Insert​

Ceramic Bezel & Gold Plating​

• Genuine Rolex: The black ceramic bezel has a deep, rich color with platinum-coated engravings that appear slightly matte under light. The gold-plated markings are flawless.
• CLEAN V5: The ceramic bezel is extremely close in color, and the engravings are filled with platinum-like coating, though some users note that the gold tone may be a shade lighter than the gen under certain lighting.

Bezel Action​

• Genuine Rolex: The bezel rotates with 120 precise, firm clicks and zero backplay.
• CLEAN V5: The bezel action is slightly looser than the gen, with a marginally less crisp click sound, but still far better than most replicas.
  
  

3. Dial & Hands​

Dial Print & Gold Accents​

• Genuine Rolex: The glossy black dial has perfect printing with sharp, raised indices filled with white gold. The gold surrounds on the hour markers are flawless.
• CLEAN V5: The dial is very close, but under magnification, the gold plating on the indices may appear slightly thinner. The printing is crisp, though the lume application can be marginally less even.

Lume Performance​

• Genuine Rolex: Uses Chromalight lume (blue glow) with long-lasting brightness.
• CLEAN V5: Also uses Swiss lume (Chromalight replica), but the intensity and duration are slightly weaker than the gen.
  
  
  

4. Bracelet & Clasp​

Bracelet Construction​

• Genuine Rolex: The Oyster bracelet is solid, with tight tolerances and a buttery-smooth feel. The gold mid-links are real gold-plated (or solid gold in precious metal models).
• CLEAN V5: The bracelet is 904L steel with PVD gold coating, which is durable but may wear slightly over time. The clasp engraving is deep and crisp, though the glidelock extension is not as smooth as the gen.
  
  
  
  

5. Movement: Dandong 3135 vs. Rolex Cal. 3135​

Performance & Reliability​

• Genuine Rolex Cal. 3135: A COSC-certified chronometer with ±2 sec/day accuracy, a 48-hour power reserve, and near-indestructible reliability.
• CLEAN V5 (Dandong 3135): A high-quality clone with ±5-8 sec/day accuracy and a ~40-hour power reserve. It’s stable but not as refined as the gen—some users report rotor noise and occasional need for servicing.

Key Differences​

Feature	Genuine Rolex 3135	CLEAN (Dandong 3135)
Accuracy	±2 sec/day	±5-8 sec/day
Power Reserve	48h	~40h
Rotor Noise	Silent	Slightly audible
Service Intervals	5-10 years	2-3 years (recommended)

Final Verdict: Is the CLEAN V5 Black Gold Submariner Worth It?​

The CLEAN Factory V5 Black Gold Submariner is one of the best replicas available, with 90-95% accuracy in appearance. The 904L steel case, ceramic bezel, and dial details are nearly indistinguishable unless inspected under a loupe. The Dandong 3135 movement is reliable but not as refined as the genuine Rolex.
Who Should Buy This?
✔ Enthusiasts who want a near-perfect rep without paying gen prices
✔ Those who appreciate the "Black Gold" aesthetic but can’t justify the Rolex premium
Perfectionists who demand 1:1 movement performance

Discussion Questions​

1. How important is movement accuracy to you in a replica? Would you prefer a cheaper rep with a less reliable movement or pay more for a super clone like CLEAN’s?
2. Do you think the gold plating on the CLEAN V5 will hold up over time, or is it a dealbreaker?
3. If you own both gen and rep Subs, what’s the biggest "tell" that gives away the CLEAN V5?
4. Would you consider servicing the Dandong 3135 movement preemptively, or wait until issues arise?
5. What’s the next upgrade you’d like to see in future CLEAN Factory versions? (Better lume? Smoother bezel action?)

Let’s hear your thoughts!