G30, I don't necessarily agree with you 100%.
We all know that reps have flaws, and we can learn about these flaws by reading some threads on here.
From that point we identify a trusted dealer to buy our chosen rep from, based on dealer reputation and, more importantly, the advertised timepiece shown on their website or a thread advert on the forum.
From that point, after we pay our money, the only obligation on the dealer is to supply a watch that matches their description and pictures, with flaws and all.
I would advise the OP if MR cannot provide a watch that matches his advertised timepiece to try another dealer who can. And ask MR to update his adverts with pictures of the watches he CAN supply.
P.s. Try Trevor........he came up with a 42mm PO which matched his advert.
That whole process sounds good to me Comc. I can assure you that I am clear where QC is concerned. The 12 hour marker is a valid point. The difference in where the HE valve sits may (and I do mean MIGHT) be exclusive to where MR sources the watches. He has had unique problems; the print on the dials for his UPO, to name one example. This may very well mean skimpy should source the watch from another TD to find the v5 he desires, just as you suggested.
My point was, you would be comparing two flawed products. If you make your comparisons with the gen AND have studied the known differences, then it might be easier to ascertain which "flawed" product would be easier to live with. That "rep vs rep" thing struck me first, then I had to reread and look at the HE valve more closely. Then I surmised "that sucks" (I am a feckin' GENIUS). I was way off the mark. However, MR may not have any choice when it comes to the product in his advertised pics and what he actually receives. If he changes his pic, then receives more of the "original" v5, then he has to deal with more hassle. I'm fairly certain he doesn't particularly care given what he sells is a replica. If you asked MR, I know he would remind you of that fact.
So, in this case, the collective mind-trust has helped with a potential problem, but this QC stuff becomes a topic with each influx of noobs on this board. The included links will, without question, explain how and why QC should be handled in a certain way. I would defer to all of the people who made those posts and I would consider why they wrote them. Unfortunately, some people just don't want to try and learn this stuff and it ultimately becomes a waste of valuable time and resources. That and the fact that as the buyer, it's YOUR responsibility.
To quote tommy boy, just my .02 dollars.
Oh, one more thing...
That last link I provided is, I believe, Trailboss's reminder as to how QC pics should be used. For some reason the link doesn't seem to be working. Just noticed it. Good stuff there, hope it hasn't been removed.
Peace out.
