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Where do I source Buff/SW dials for my 3kf 5711?

JaceBeleren

Getting To Know The Place
29/6/24
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Hi All,

New poster here who has just started to get into replica watches. I've now gotten my first rep in hand, a 3kf v4 blue 5711 and I'm generally happy with it except for the fact that the dial color is noticeably off in sunlight. So I want to get the dial replaced with a closer to gen Buff dial or SW dial (latest version). I understand I'll need the corresponding hands/datewheel too to make sure the lume intensity aligns etc. and the date stays properly centered in the window and I'm fine with that.

My only problem is that I can't for the life of me figure out how to source these parts. Everything I've seen online says to ask a Trusted dealer but unlike the watches themselves which you can easily see on their website I've checked all of them out and searched for all sorts of combinations of "Buff dial","SW dial", "5711 dial" etc. and not found a single link to a product listing where I can purchase the dial on any of their websites. I've probably read 50+ forum posts here and on Reddit about this but I'm still confused.

I've even tried contacting the TD I purchased the watch from (Puretime) about this but their reply asks me for pictures of what the dial/hands look like which is very hard to convey because different lighting conditions can make two very different things end up looking similar and I don't want to send pictures that end up giving an incorrect impression and end up with something different from what I wanted to buy.

So my question is really simple: Who do I contact about purchasing these accessories? Ideally some exact names I can go the websites of/email would be great.

Thanks!
 

domiffm

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Just ask CTime, the are usually really good with souring Buff dials. But curious why you want to change the dial on the 3KF 5711? It’s great out of the box, I really wouldn’t change anything on this watch.
 
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eBoy

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Hello and WELCOME from the official RWI reception desk!

You are receiving this introduction because you either posted in the "new members say hi" section or —for the first time(s)— elsewhere. In the latter case, consider introducing yourself in the aforementioned section.

If you haven't already, please make sure to read all relevant sticky threads. They contain important and essential information such as the forum rules! Most importantly the sales rules, because you will NOT yet be eligible / allowed to sell unless you meet certain criteria / are certified first.

A good starting point is this list of resources on RWI:

Please also take another look at this important sticky that you should already have seen after logging on for the first time:

This quick anti-fraud guide is essential if you are about to order from a dealer for the first time:

If you need any further assistance, feel free to contact me or @Feefo!

We will gladly help, but please allow some time for PM responses as we have lifes outside of RWI!
 
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JaceBeleren

Getting To Know The Place
29/6/24
56
50
18
Just ask CTime, the are usually really good with souring Buff dials. But curious why you want to change the dial on the 3KF 5711? It’s great out of the box, I really wouldn’t change anything on this watch.
Thanks! I read online that all available 5711s reps needed a fair bit of work to look close to gen. The main difference I noticed between my watch and a gen was the dial color in bright light so I searched for dial replacements that mimicked the gen better and there were lots of posts about how Buff/SW dials make a big difference so I thought I should get that done.

I really wouldn’t change anything on this watch.
Not even the first link modification to make it more comfortable? After the dial color discrepancy I'd say this is the biggest thing bothering me.
 

domiffm

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Thanks! I read online that all available 5711s reps needed a fair bit of work to look close to gen. The main difference I noticed between my watch and a gen was the dial color in bright light so I searched for dial replacements that mimicked the gen better and there were lots of posts about how Buff/SW dials make a big difference so I thought I should get that done.


Not even the first link modification to make it more comfortable? After the dial color discrepancy I'd say this is the biggest thing bothering me.
I don’t see any problem with the 3KF 5711 dial? When talking about 3KF 5811, yes, there is a noticeable difference to gen and worth it to change to Buff dial.

The first link discussion I never understood. Mine is totally flexible and hugs my wrist extremely comfy.
 
Last edited:

JaceBeleren

Getting To Know The Place
29/6/24
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50
18
I read on Reddit threads like this one: https://www.reddit.com/r/RepTime/comments/151ivzu upvoted comments saying e.g. :

When it comes to stock 5711, both 3kf or PPF are far from genuine 5711. They do have some good parts as in 3kf has a very nice case & PPF has a nicer dial compared to 3kf, but still nowhere close to genuine. So both require modifications to reach the gen specs

I have had both stock and modded watches, and the return on investment that you get from a modded watch is quite good. I could spend 2k on a stock 3kf nautilus, and have it 95% close to a genuine nautilus, basically allowing me to enjoy a 120k watch for 2% of the price.
And:
Dial, hands, datewheel are definitely a must because 3kf parts are completely wrong in terms of color/shape etc., This mod will cost about $1100 for watch & parts both, add $100 for installation.

If your budget allows, add a deep crystal and have the case + bracelet brushed/polished since the brushing on 3kf is very light. This'd get the face of the watch you very close to the genuine patek, but will push the cost to ~$1500
Also the watch I have makes a trrr sound when its rotor moves around. I'm assuming this is the mainspring releasing excess energy put into it by the moving rotor to prevent damage from overwinding but I don't know if this sound is normal and something to be expected/is present even in gen 5711.
 

trustytime

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I read on Reddit threads like this one: https://www.reddit.com/r/RepTime/comments/151ivzu upvoted comments saying e.g. :


And:

Also the watch I have makes a trrr sound when its rotor moves around. I'm assuming this is the mainspring releasing excess energy put into it by the moving rotor to prevent damage from overwinding but I don't know if this sound is normal and something to be expected/is present even in gen 5711.
Forget about Reddit...

The 3KF 5711 dial is indeed great out of the box, the picture from buddy @domiffm tells it all.

On the genuine 5711, there are many generations of dial which they classify as MK versions (different year periods)

Cheers.
 

derjenigewelcher

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RC watch parts, TD here, good buff contact.
Quote from him:

iven my extensive experience in the local market, I have access to all the major aftermarket factories such as Buff, SW, RO, DP, and RB, as well as customizable stone dials for Rolex, AP, Patek, and other brands.

I have a special relationship with Buff and ACE factory, which makes free-sprung movements for Patek. I can ensure fast QC for these factories.