Some people say the blue dial looks like the real deal, others say it looks washed out and v2 is better. Some people say the black one looks great and others say the black dial is difficult to replicate. So this is not confusing?
Sorry, I might not be a pro like you. I've never seen a real AP. I just didn't wanna spend 400 bucks on something that can be spotted as a fake from across the street, that's all.
Regarding the washed out blue - There was the consensus that there are different dial variations on the genuine 15400 as well.
I don't wanted to offend you in any way.
There are so many conclusions about the 15400 that it is kinda hard to stay understandingly as everyone started at your point and had to snuggle the way through the forum by reading and getting told that there will be no spoon feeding.
anyways - I recommend the Silver/white dial as it got the most correct tapisserie pattern and the nicest shine in the sun but thats just my taste.
The blue is difficult to achieve as there are so many factors to include in the process of making such colored dials.
The black V3 is nicely done too - but as always be aware of the fact that there is paint on top of the engraved tapisserie lines so it is not as refined as the anodized white dial without actual paint.
The blue one is very nice too and if you never saw a gen before you will never notice the difference without a side by side comparison and you will be impressed from the over all finish of the watch.
JF makes a beautiful job on these reps these days even if the rep is slightly thicker (nobody will notice the 1,2mm difference if he is not this educated like us haha)... The Gen is not worth buying if you want just a good looking watch and not the haute horologerie from AP itself.
You won't regret it.