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As a long-time watch enthusiast and collector of both genuine and high-quality replica timepieces, I've had the opportunity to examine countless homage and replica watches. Today, I'm excited to share my detailed review of the Clean Factory (C Factory) Rolex GMT Master II "Sprite" M126720VTNR-0001 - one of the most talked-about replica watches in recent years. This left-handed "Sprite" GMT has caused quite a stir in both the genuine and replica watch communities since its release, and Clean Factory's version aims to capture all the unique details that make this watch so special.
The genuine model features:
Upon unboxing, the first thing that strikes you is how well the watch captures the distinctive aesthetic of the genuine "Sprite." The black and green bezel colors are vibrant, and the left-handed configuration immediately stands out as something different from your typical GMT watch.
One of the most impressive aspects is how Clean Factory has replicated the complex ceramic bezel. The transition between black and green is smooth, without the harsh dividing line seen in lower-quality replicas. The engraved numerals are crisp and filled with platinum (or a platinum-like material), matching the genuine bezel's appearance closely.
The sapphire crystal features the signature cyclops magnification at 9 o'clock (for the date window), just like the genuine model. The cyclops appears to have similar magnification properties to the real Rolex.
The hands are particularly well-done, with the green GMT hand being slightly shorter than on standard GMT models - a detail specific to the left-handed "Sprite" that Clean Factory has accurately reproduced. The lume application is even across all hands and markers, with no visible inconsistencies.
One minor tell might be the date wheel - while the font is close, some replicas struggle to perfectly match Rolex's distinctive date font. However, Clean Factory's version is among the better ones I've seen.
Clean Factory has made notable improvements to the crown logo on the clasp. Their latest versions feature a polished base with a flat surface on the crown itself - a detail that sets their replicas apart from others in the market.
The movement operates similarly to the genuine article:
Pros:
When considering that the genuine "Sprite" sells for well above its retail price on the secondary market (often $15,000+), the Clean Factory version offers an attractive alternative for enthusiasts who appreciate the design but aren't ready to invest in the genuine article.
While no replica is perfect, this comes remarkably close to the genuine article in terms of appearance and functionality. The few minor tells would only be noticeable to trained eyes under close inspection. For enthusiasts who appreciate the "Sprite" design but aren't ready to pay the premium for a genuine model, the Clean Factory version offers an excellent alternative.
Rating: 9/10
(Considering price, accuracy, and quality within the replica market)
Would I recommend it? For collectors interested in high-quality replicas, absolutely. Just remember that while this is an impressive homage, it's not the genuine article - both in terms of craftsmanship and the intangible qualities that make a real Rolex special.
What are your thoughts on the "Sprite" GMT? Have you handled either the genuine or Clean Factory version? Share your experiences below!
Introduction to the Genuine Model
Before diving into the replica, let's briefly discuss what makes the genuine Rolex GMT Master II "Sprite" so unique. Released in 2022, this watch broke tradition by being Rolex's first serially produced left-handed GMT, with the crown positioned at 9 o'clock instead of the traditional 3 o'clock position. The black and green Cerachrom ceramic bezel earned it the nickname "Sprite" (after the green and clear soda), distinguishing it from the more famous "Pepsi" (blue-red) and "Coke" (black-red) GMT bezels.The genuine model features:
- 40mm Oyster case in 904L steel
- Black and green bidirectional rotating ceramic bezel
- Black dial with Chromalight luminescence
- Date window at 9 o'clock (instead of 3)
- Caliber 3285 movement with 70-hour power reserve
- Water resistance to 100 meters
- Official retail price of ¥86,000 (approx. $12,000)
Clean Factory's Replica: First Impressions
Clean Factory has built a reputation for producing some of the highest quality Rolex replicas, particularly known for their attention to detail in ceramic bezels and case construction. Their version of the "Sprite" GMT aims to replicate all the unique features of the genuine model while maintaining their signature quality standards.Upon unboxing, the first thing that strikes you is how well the watch captures the distinctive aesthetic of the genuine "Sprite." The black and green bezel colors are vibrant, and the left-handed configuration immediately stands out as something different from your typical GMT watch.
Case and Construction
The case measures 40mm in diameter, identical to the genuine model, and is constructed from 904L stainless steel - a hallmark of Clean Factory's higher-end replicas. The brushed and polished surfaces are well-executed, with the crown guards on the left side mirroring the genuine watch's unconventional design.One of the most impressive aspects is how Clean Factory has replicated the complex ceramic bezel. The transition between black and green is smooth, without the harsh dividing line seen in lower-quality replicas. The engraved numerals are crisp and filled with platinum (or a platinum-like material), matching the genuine bezel's appearance closely.
The sapphire crystal features the signature cyclops magnification at 9 o'clock (for the date window), just like the genuine model. The cyclops appears to have similar magnification properties to the real Rolex.
Dial and Hands
The black dial is another area where Clean Factory excels. The printing is sharp, with no visible flaws under magnification. The hour markers are properly lumed with what appears to be Chromalight (or a very close imitation), providing that characteristic blue glow in low light conditions.The hands are particularly well-done, with the green GMT hand being slightly shorter than on standard GMT models - a detail specific to the left-handed "Sprite" that Clean Factory has accurately reproduced. The lume application is even across all hands and markers, with no visible inconsistencies.
One minor tell might be the date wheel - while the font is close, some replicas struggle to perfectly match Rolex's distinctive date font. However, Clean Factory's version is among the better ones I've seen.
Bracelet and Clasp
The bracelet is another strong point. Clean Factory uses what they call an "AR factory" bracelet, known for its quality in the replica community. The links have a solid feel, with smooth articulation and no sharp edges. The clasp features the Easylink extension system, functioning similarly to the genuine article.Clean Factory has made notable improvements to the crown logo on the clasp. Their latest versions feature a polished base with a flat surface on the crown itself - a detail that sets their replicas apart from others in the market.
Movement
Clean Factory equips their "Sprite" GMT with a clone of the Rolex 3285 movement (sometimes listed as a 3285 or 3186 depending on the source). This movement aims to replicate the functionality of the genuine Caliber 3285, including the independent GMT hand adjustment and 70-hour power reserve (though actual power reserve may vary).The movement operates similarly to the genuine article:
- First crown position: Quick-set date (via hour hand)
- Second position: GMT hand adjustment
- Third position: Time setting
Accuracy Assessment
After comparing the Clean Factory "Sprite" side-by-side with genuine photos and specifications, here are the key accuracy points:Pros:
- Excellent bezel color matching and transition
- Correct left-handed crown position
- Properly positioned date window at 9 o'clock
- High-quality 904L steel construction
- Accurate dial printing and lume
- Functional GMT complication
- Improved clasp details
- Movement decoration not identical to genuine
- Date font slightly off upon close inspection
- Cyclops magnification might be slightly less than genuine
- Bezel action may not be as smooth as genuine Rolex
Price and Value
Clean Factory's "Sprite" GMT typically sells for around $400-$530 (¥3200-¥5300) depending on the dealer and any ongoing promotions. At this price point, it represents one of the higher-end replicas available, justifying its cost with better materials and attention to detail than cheaper alternatives.When considering that the genuine "Sprite" sells for well above its retail price on the secondary market (often $15,000+), the Clean Factory version offers an attractive alternative for enthusiasts who appreciate the design but aren't ready to invest in the genuine article.
Who Is This Watch For?
The Clean Factory "Sprite" GMT would appeal to:- Collectors who appreciate unique watch designs
- Left-handed individuals who prefer crown-on-left watches
- GMT function users who need to track multiple time zones
- Enthusiasts who want to experience the "Sprite" design without the genuine price tag
- Those who appreciate high-quality replicas as study pieces
Final Thoughts
Clean Factory's take on the Rolex GMT Master II "Sprite" is one of their more impressive releases to date. They've successfully captured all the unique elements that make the genuine model stand out - the left-handed configuration, the black and green bezel, and the overall unconventional design - while maintaining their reputation for quality construction and attention to detail.While no replica is perfect, this comes remarkably close to the genuine article in terms of appearance and functionality. The few minor tells would only be noticeable to trained eyes under close inspection. For enthusiasts who appreciate the "Sprite" design but aren't ready to pay the premium for a genuine model, the Clean Factory version offers an excellent alternative.
Rating: 9/10
(Considering price, accuracy, and quality within the replica market)
Would I recommend it? For collectors interested in high-quality replicas, absolutely. Just remember that while this is an impressive homage, it's not the genuine article - both in terms of craftsmanship and the intangible qualities that make a real Rolex special.
What are your thoughts on the "Sprite" GMT? Have you handled either the genuine or Clean Factory version? Share your experiences below!