- 31/3/21
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Hello everyone ! Today I will bring you my review of the newly upgraded Breguet Classique 5177 from the MKS factory that I have recently received. After being raided in early 2021 and subsequently forced to close its factory for a few months afterwards, MKS is back with a few IWC and Breguet replicas.
When it comes to the Breguet Classique 5177 white enamel dial, the two top factories in the game for the best replicas are FKF and MKS. Both of them offers great details even though finish can vary from one factory to another. Let’s also mention the new LTF factory which offers in my opinion the least appealing finish for the white dial with many visible flaws. I would like to point out that there are very few QC pictures publicly available for the LTF factory, so I can only judge from the pictures I see on TD's websites.
The reason I decided to choose MKS over FKF is because of the gen-like thickness the MKS version offers. I was also very curious to discover the changes between V2 and the new V3. Photos are mine, so please be indulgent
When it comes to the Breguet Classique 5177 white enamel dial, the two top factories in the game for the best replicas are FKF and MKS. Both of them offers great details even though finish can vary from one factory to another. Let’s also mention the new LTF factory which offers in my opinion the least appealing finish for the white dial with many visible flaws. I would like to point out that there are very few QC pictures publicly available for the LTF factory, so I can only judge from the pictures I see on TD's websites.
The reason I decided to choose MKS over FKF is because of the gen-like thickness the MKS version offers. I was also very curious to discover the changes between V2 and the new V3. Photos are mine, so please be indulgent
Dimensions:
In terms of size, the MKS replica is consistent with the original. The thickness of 8.8mm is probably what makes it the most desirable compared to the FKF V3 model and its 9.3mm, although the 0.5mm difference is negligible. The watch case has a diameter of 38mm, just like the genuine.
Dial:
The dial looks very similar from the gen and is made with real white enamel (not painted) and the hands of burnt blue steel. The dial has a very bright porcelain-like effect which makes the watch really appealing. The brightness, hardness and texture of the enamel has been improved compared to V2.
It should be mentioned that the laser carved anti-counterfeiting logo under the axis and above the 6 is also quite perfectly represented by MKS.
One of the complaints that was made with the MKS model was that the Breguet logo and numerals seemed bolder in comparison to the original. This is partly true, although after extensive research, it appears that some original models from early 2010 have this more or less pronounced feature. The pad/tampon printing process on the gens makes each dial unique, hence the differences in thickness from one series to another over the years.
It should be mentioned that the laser carved anti-counterfeiting logo under the axis and above the 6 is also quite perfectly represented by MKS.
One of the complaints that was made with the MKS model was that the Breguet logo and numerals seemed bolder in comparison to the original. This is partly true, although after extensive research, it appears that some original models from early 2010 have this more or less pronounced feature. The pad/tampon printing process on the gens makes each dial unique, hence the differences in thickness from one series to another over the years.
The Arabic numerals are not applied pieces and are printed. The printing is thick enough to be almost three-dimensional and reflective even without a loupe to hand. In contrast, the minutes track on the edge of the dial appears to be more finely printed - the type of printing one would expect normally.
The corners of the date window frame seem a bit sharp when zoomed in compared to gen, but conversely, I find the FKF factory ones a little too smooth. What do you think ?
Movement:
The movement inside this watch is a Japanese MIYOTA 9015 automatic movement at 28800vph modified to look like the original Cal.777Q. Just like all the Miyota 9015, it is a pretty robust movement that keeps good time. It should be noted that the rotor is particularly noisy on this one. The movement has also been re-engraved compared to V2, but a defect is to be deplored in the engraving of the number of jewels.
Visually, I must say that I am rather disappointed with the lack of attention to detail that MKS has shown regarding the decoration of the movement. The FKF version is vastly superior in every way.
I have checked on the official Breguet website and looked at a photo of the back of the watch (photo shown below). I was surprised to discover that there was a mistake. It reads “Twenty-eight (28) jewels” instead of “Twenty-six (26) jewels”. The very same error has been reproduced by MKS. I came to the conclusion that they used photos as guidance to reproduce this model of watch and not a genuine watch like many other factories.
Caution, a second thing to note is that the steel model from MKS has a yellow gold colored rotor. This is incorrect because the genuine steel model has a silver colored steel rotor. So be vigilant when you want to order the steel model. I advise you in this case to choose the FKF factory.
Strap & Buckle:
Nothing special to say about the buckle. This one seems rather robust and conforms to the original at first sight. Let’s see with time… Like all replicas, the leather strap is of poor quality. The leather is rather rigid and gives an unpleasant plastic effect. I therefore advise you to buy a good quality aftermarket leather strap that will give you optimal wearing comfort.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
-Thickness and diameter of the case conform to gen.
-Real enamel with bright white porcelain-like shiny finish.
- Nice rendering of the yellow gold case.
Cons:
- The dial font logo is still a bit too thick !
- Poorly decorated movement with the "28 jewels" typo.
- Noisy rotor.
- Bad leather strap quality.
