Clean Factory Black Submariner vs. Genuine Submariner: In-depth Review and Comparison

The Rolex Submariner ref. M116610LN-0001 ("Black Submariner Date") is one of the most iconic dive watches in history, renowned for its precision, durability, and timeless design. Clean Factory (C Factory), a leading replica manufacturer, has gained recognition for producing high-quality replicas that closely mimic the genuine model.
This objective comparison examines the Clean Factory Black Submariner against the authentic Rolex, highlighting key differences in materials, craftsmanship, movement, and overall performance.

1. Case & Construction​

Genuine Rolex Submariner​

• Material: 904L stainless steel (now branded as "Oystersteel"), known for superior corrosion resistance and a refined finish.
• Dimensions: 40mm diameter, 12.5mm thickness, with a balanced weight of ~156g.
• Finishing: Alternating polished and brushed surfaces, with precise chamfering on the lugs.
• Crown Guards: Slim and well-defined, matching Rolex’s modern case design.

Clean Factory Replica​

• Material: Claims to use 904L steel, similar to genuine, though some debate exists over its exact composition.
• Dimensions: Matches the genuine at 40mm × 12.5mm, with a near-identical weight (~155g).
• Finishing: High-quality brushing and polishing, though some edges may lack the absolute sharpness of a genuine Rolex.
• Crown Guards: Improved over older replicas but may still be slightly thicker than genuine.

Verdict: Clean Factory’s case is impressively close, but Rolex’s machining tolerances and finishing remain superior.

2. Bezel & Ceramic Insert​

Genuine Rolex​

• Cerachrom Insert: Made from scratch-resistant ceramic with platinum-coated numerals that never fade.
• Action: 120-click unidirectional rotation with smooth, precise feedback.
• Pearl (Lume Dot): Perfectly centered, with a thin metal surround and strong lume.

Clean Factory Replica​

• Ceramic Insert: Uses Clean V3/V4 bezel, considered one of the best in replicas, with platinum-filled markings.
• Action: 120-click mechanism is firm but slightly less refined than genuine.
• Pearl: Well-executed, though some samples may have minor alignment issues.

Verdict: Clean Factory’s bezel is 95% accurate, but Rolex’s platinum coating and smoother action are unmatched.

3. Dial & Hands​

Genuine Rolex​

• Dial: Matte black with a subtle sunburst effect under light.
• Hour Markers: Perfectly applied, with sharp edges and flawless lume (Chromalight).
• Date Window: 2.5x cyclops magnification with anti-reflective coating.
• "Swiss Made" Text: Crisp and perfectly spaced.

Clean Factory Replica​

• Dial: Very close to genuine, though some sunburst effect may vary.
• Hour Markers: Well-applied, but lume may not last as long as genuine Chromalight.
• Date Wheel: Newer slimmer font, but slight misalignment possible in some batches.
• Cyclops: Good magnification (2.5x), but AR coating may not be as effective.

Verdict: Clean Factory’s dial is extremely convincing, but Rolex’s lume longevity and printing precision are superior.

4. Movement​

Genuine Rolex (Caliber 3135)​

• Precision: COSC-certified, ±2 sec/day accuracy.
• Durability: Parachrom hairspring, resistant to shocks and magnetism.
• Power Reserve: ~48 hours.
• Winding: Buttery-smooth, with instant date change at midnight.

Clean Factory (Asian 3135 Clone or ETA 2836)​

• Asian 3135 Clone:
• Functionality: Mimics Rolex’s clockwise winding and instant date change.
• Reliability: Decent but not as durable as genuine.
• Noise: Rotor is slightly louder than Rolex.
• ETA 2836 Option:
• Less accurate: Counter-clockwise winding, gradual date change (~45 min).

Verdict: The genuine 3135 is far superior in precision and longevity. Clean Factory’s clone is functional but not comparable.

5. Bracelet & Clasp​

Genuine Rolex​

• Material: 904L steel, perfect SEL (Solid End Links) fit.
• Glidelock Extension: Smooth operation, precise micro-adjustments.
• Clasp Engravings: Deep, crisp, and perfectly aligned.

Clean Factory ReplicaMaterial: Claims 904L steel, with good weight and feel.​

• Glidelock: Works well but may feel slightly less refined.
• Clasp Engravings: Close to genuine but not as deep or sharp.

Verdict: Clean Factory’s bracelet is one of the best in replicas, but Rolex’s finishing is still ahead.

6. Water Resistance​

• Genuine Rolex: 300m (1,000 ft), rigorously tested.
• Clean Factory: Claims 30ATM, but not recommended for actual diving.

Verdict: Rolex’s waterproofing is far superior—never submerge a replica.

Final Verdict: How Close Is Clean Factory to Genuine?​

Category	Genuine Rolex	Clean Factory	Accuracy
Case & Finish	Perfect machining	Very close, minor edge differences	90%
Bezel & Insert	Platinum coating, flawless action	Excellent, but slightly less smooth	95%
Dial & Hands	Flawless printing, Chromalight	Near-perfect, minor lume differences	93%
Movement	COSC-certified 3135	Functional clone, less refined	80%
Bracelet & Clasp	Perfect SEL fit, deep engravings	Very good, but not identical	88%
Water Resistance	300m tested	Not reliable for diving	N/A

Conclusion:​

Clean Factory’s Black Submariner is one of the best replicas available, achieving 90-95% visual accuracy. However, the movement, waterproofing, and finishing details still fall short of genuine Rolex standards.

• For collectors & enthusiasts: Nothing beats the real thing.
• For those who want the look without the price: Clean Factory offers an extremely convincing alternative.

Would you spot the difference at a glance? Probably not. But under scrutiny, Rolex’s craftsmanship and engineering remain unmatched.
Final Rating:

• Genuine Rolex: 10/10
• Clean Factory Replica: 8.5/10 (Excellent for a replica, but not a true replacement)

Would you like a deeper dive into any specific aspect? Let me know!