Well, I got a gen 2531.80 in from @exelonmon a couple days ago. Super thrilled about it. I have been wanting one for quite some time, just did not pull the trigger. In the meantime, I built a Superfranken. It was a blast. It continues its legacy on with [MENTION=70346]xj4sonx[/MENTION] .
First off, my overall impression upon receiving the watch was pure excitement. It was overnighted, however it did not say it hand left the local facility in exelonmons state. I was super bummed when I woke up. So, I went back to bed. The next thing I know, someones at the door bright and early (didn't even know the mail delivered that early...). I ran downstairs shirtless, and took delivery of the package.
My first impressions were wow, this happened. Then , I thought of my superfranken, and said "wow, i built a great watch." I will highlight some difference in side by side photos (can't do any more comparisons, I had the watch packed up and ready to be mailed by the time the gen arrived. To the eye (minus the He valve) they were spot on. The gen crown/tube made a HUGE difference. The specs of the super franken can be found under Paps franken seamaster thread: Or, found here (insert link).
To build a proper franken SMP, the gen crystal sets it off.. Puts it in a different playing field. Seriously. It makes the watch.
Just take a look: (gen on left in all pics)
Okay, at this point in my morning, I had sized the gen bracelet and had it on. I don't have words to describe that feeling.. It's just pure awesomeness. It feels SUPER smooth. My rep bracelet I modded a bit, by giving it a bath, and sanded the edges from be so sharp. However, the end links bothered me to know end on my superfranken. The end links on the gen are amazing. However, again, something I can deal with on my superfranken.
Next difference on the wrist is how slim the gen is. The rep was a bit thicker (don't have the measurements). But on the wrist, its slightly noticeable. Especially wearing a shirt with tighter cuffs.
From the picture above, you can see the difference. However, its not that noticeable on the wrist, unless like I said, with cuffs.
The next difference I found, was the bracelet clasp. I'd hope the gen would shine here. And it does not disappoint. Its operation is quite smooth, and feels very solid. My rep clasp felt pretty good, however the writing was off a bit. Again, something easily lived with.
Rep on left here!
And here's the case back:
Now those are the biggest differences. In the end, I find that the super franken was great. Besides the He valve, its amazing. I probably would not have gone gen with this model if it was not for that. I decided though, I do not think I will go gen on another watch I can so easily franken (PO, etc..). Maybe not frankening these watches would make the gen more special? I'm not sure. However at the end of the day, I am extremely happy with my Gen purchase. It's an important milestone in my life, and I figured it is something I can have forever. (I hope).
Here is some more pics of the super franken:
Here is some more pics of the gen:
Unboxing:
https://vimeo.com/178387970
