Can a Rolex Super Clone Watch Be Passed Off as Real?

For years, the Rolex GMT-Master II "Coke" with its iconic red and blue Cerachrom bezel has been one of the most sought-after watches among collectors. With genuine models often selling at significant premiums in the secondary market, high-quality replicas like those from Clean Factory (C Factory) have gained immense popularity. This in-depth review compares the Clean Factory's latest iteration of the GMT-Master II "Coke" (m126710blro) against the genuine model, examining every critical detail from the bezel colors to the movement performance.

Introduction to the GMT-Master II "Coke"​

The Rolex GMT-Master II m126710blro, affectionately nicknamed the "Coke" for its red and blue bezel colors, represents one of Rolex's most iconic tool watches. Originally designed for Pan Am pilots in the 1950s, the GMT function allows tracking of multiple time zones simultaneously. The modern iteration features a 40mm Oystersteel (904L steel) case, a bidirectional rotating 24-hour bezel with a red and blue Cerachrom insert, and the advanced Caliber 3285 movement with approximately 70 hours of power reserve.
Clean Factory has established itself as one of the premier replica manufacturers, particularly known for its exceptional bezel inserts - a critical component in GMT replicas. Their latest version of the "Coke" GMT-Master II claims to have addressed previous shortcomings in color accuracy, movement functionality, and overall build quality.

Case and Bracelet Comparison​

Case Construction​

The genuine Rolex GMT-Master II features a 40mm case crafted from Rolex's proprietary 904L stainless steel (marketed as Oystersteel), known for its superior corrosion resistance and ability to take a high polish. Clean Factory replicates this using actual 904L steel, with CNC machining that closely matches the genuine case dimensions of 40mm in diameter and approximately 12.5mm in thickness.
Key observations:

• Case Shape: Clean Factory has accurately replicated the case profile, including the lugs' curvature and the crown guards' shape.
• Finishing: The alternating brushed and polished surfaces mirror the genuine watch, with particularly impressive brushing on the case sides.
• Weight: At approximately 162g (with full bracelet), the Clean version comes very close to the genuine watch's weight, differing by only a few grams.
• Crown: The triplock crown is properly engraved with the Rolex coronet, though the machining on the genuine crown is slightly sharper
  

Bracelet and Clasp​

The genuine "Coke" GMT-Master II comes with Rolex's Jubilee bracelet, a five-piece link design that offers exceptional flexibility and comfort. Clean Factory's reproduction of the Jubilee bracelet shows significant improvement over previous versions:

• Link Construction: Each link is properly articulated, matching the genuine bracelet's flexibility. The center links are polished while the outer links are brushed, just like the authentic version.
• Clasp: The Oysterlock clasp features the correct coronet engraving and the 5mm Easylink extension system. While functionally identical, the engraving on the genuine clasp is slightly deeper and more precise.
• Screw Links: Clean Factory uses actual screws rather than pins, allowing for easy adjustment like the genuine bracelet.

Bezel and Insert Analysis​

The red and blue Cerachrom bezel is arguably the most critical and challenging component to replicate accurately. Rolex's proprietary ceramic manufacturing process creates a bezel with perfect color consistency and remarkable scratch resistance.

Color Accuracy​

Clean Factory's latest version (MK2) has significantly improved the color matching:

• Red Section: Earlier replicas often had a pinkish hue, but Clean Factory's current version achieves a deeper, wine-red color that closely matches the genuine MK2 bezel (post-2018 production).
• Blue Section: The blue transitions to a deep navy with subtle purple undertones, nearly identical to the genuine bezel under most lighting conditions.
• Transition Point: The color transition at 6 and 18 is clean and abrupt, just like the genuine bezel.
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Engraving and Finish​

• Platinum Coating: The numerals and markings are filled with platinum-colored coating that has the correct matte finish, not too shiny or too dull.
• Engraving Depth: The depth of the engravings is nearly identical, though under magnification, the genuine engravings show slightly sharper edges.
• Click Action: The bidirectional rotation has 24 clicks with firm but smooth action, very similar to the genuine bezel.

Dial and Hands Examination​

Dial Details​

The black dial of the GMT-Master II appears simple at first glance but contains numerous subtle details that Clean Factory has replicated with impressive accuracy:

• Printing: The "ROLEX" logo and other text are crisp with the correct font weight and spacing. Under high magnification, the genuine printing shows slightly sharper edges.
• Hour Markers: The applied indices are perfectly positioned and feature the same Chromalight lume as the genuine watch. The shape and proportions are accurate, including the triangle at 12 o'clock.
• Date Window: The cyclops magnification is correct at 2.5x, and the date font matches Rolex's distinctive style. The window is properly framed with a white gold border (simulated in the Clean version).

Hands and Lume​

• Hand Stack: Clean Factory correctly replicates the genuine hand stack (hour, minute, GMT, second).
• GMT Hand: The red arrow-tipped GMT hand is the correct shape and color. Earlier versions sometimes had issues with the arrow's proportions.
• Lume: Both use Chromalight lume that glows blue in darkness. The Clean version's lume is slightly less intense and doesn't last as long as the genuine.
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Movement: The Heart of the Matter​

The movement represents the most significant difference between the genuine and Clean Factory versions:

Genuine Rolex Caliber 3285​

• Precision: COSC-certified with -2/+2 seconds per day accuracy
• Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours
• Features: Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers
• Adjustment: Independent hour hand for quick time zone changes

Clean Factory's Clone 3285​

Clean Factory uses a modified Dan Dong 3285 movement that aims to replicate the genuine movement's functionality:

• Power Reserve: Claims 72 hours (testing shows closer to 65 hours in practice)
• Accuracy: Typically ±5-10 seconds per day after regulation
• Functionality: Correctly mimics the independent hour hand adjustment of the genuine movement
• Decoration: Bridges and plates are decorated to resemble the genuine 3285, though under close inspection the finishing is not as refined.

While the clone movement performs remarkably well for a replica, it lacks the genuine movement's precision, durability, and anti-magnetic properties. The winding action is also not as smooth as the genuine Rolex.

Wearability and Practical Considerations​

On the Wrist​

Both watches wear nearly identically due to their matching dimensions and weight distribution. The Jubilee bracelet's flexibility makes it exceptionally comfortable for all-day wear.

Durability​

• Water Resistance: The genuine watch is rated for 100m, while the Clean version should be considered splash-resistant at best unless properly sealed by a watchmaker.
• Scratch Resistance: Both use sapphire crystals with similar hardness. The ceramic bezels are equally scratch-resistant.
• Bracelet Longevity: The genuine Rolex bracelet will maintain its finish longer, while the Clean version may show wear on polished surfaces more quickly.

Price and Value Proposition​

The genuine Rolex GMT-Master II m126710blro-0001 retails for approximately $10,300 but often sells for significantly more on the secondary market due to demand. Clean Factory's version costs around $480-$550, representing about 5% of the genuine watch's market price.
For this price, you're getting:

• 90-95% of the genuine watch's appearance
• Similar weight and feel on the wrist
• Functional GMT complication
• Good quality materials (904L steel, ceramic bezel)

What you're missing:

• Genuine Rolex craftsmanship and precision
• Long-term reliability and resale value
• Status of owning the real thing

Conclusion: Who Should Consider the Clean Factory GMT-Master II "Coke"?​

The Clean Factory GMT-Master II "Coke" represents one of the best replica watches available today. It captures the essence of the genuine watch with remarkable accuracy in terms of appearance, weight, and functionality. For watch enthusiasts who appreciate the GMT-Master II's design but can't justify or obtain the genuine article, this replica offers an excellent alternative.
However, it's important to remember that no replica can truly match the engineering excellence, precision, and long-term durability of a genuine Rolex. The Clean Factory version is best suited for:

1. Enthusiasts who want to experience the GMT-Master II design without the significant financial investment
2. Collectors who enjoy studying and comparing replicas to genuine watches
3. Individuals who want a high-quality "placeholder" while saving for the genuine watch

For those who prioritize horological authenticity, investment value, and the intangible satisfaction of owning the real thing, saving for the genuine Rolex remains the ultimate goal. But as far as replicas go, Clean Factory's GMT-Master II "Coke" sets a new standard for accuracy and quality in the replica market.
Final Verdict:

• Appearance: 9.5/10
• Build Quality: 8.5/10
• Movement Performance: 7/10
• Value for Money: 9/10
• Overall: 8.5/10
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