The most talked about thing in the watch circle recently is the “Lake Tahoe Special Edition” pilot watch launched by M+ Factory. As a dark horse in the field of replicas in recent years, M+ has really taken the details to the extreme this time. Even many old players couldn’t help but sigh after getting started: “This is not a replica, it is clearly a tribute.”
Let’s start with the appearance. The most eye-catching thing about this watch is its pure white ceramic case. Many pictures on the Internet look like they have a frosted texture, but this is not the case – the original design was inspired by high-altitude snow scenes, white with gray, and the luster is soft and non-glaring, like sunlight filtered by clouds. M+ Factory has accurately restored this “low-reflective white porcelain” effect, which not only retains the warmth of ceramics, but also avoids the cheap and shiny plastic feel. The first feeling when you put it on is: high-end.
The mirror is made of sapphire material, which has extremely high transparency. It is also coated with a blue film, which will give off a faint blue luster under different lights. It is not only scratch-resistant and wear-resistant, but also has a richer visual hierarchy. Turning to the back, the etched pattern on the titanium metal bottom cover is clear and sharp, the edges are clean and neat, and there is no burr at all. Compared with some earlier versions with “burrs flying around”, there is not a slight improvement.
The dial has a matte black background with a subtle graininess, simulating the visual effect of a military instrument panel. The scales and fonts all use mimeograph technology. They are not simple stickers or printing, but are “printed” on the disk like the original factory. It has a strong three-dimensional effect and is not easy to fall off after long-term use. The calendar window has regular fonts and is in the center. Although it uses the 9015 movement, it is a slow-jump calendar (it starts jumping at 11 p.m.), but it has little impact on daily use. After all, who would stare at the calendar and wait for it to jump?
Speaking of movement, let’s be honest here: the M+ uses an imported 9015 automatic movement, with one-way winding and a power reserve of about 38 hours. There is indeed a gap compared to the original 32112 self-produced movement (instant jump + 120 hours power reserve), but it is more stable and reliable, and M+ has been noise-reduced. The automatic rotor sounds lighter than the ordinary 9015, and it is much quieter to wear.
In terms of size, the watch has a diameter of 41 mm and a thickness of about 11 mm, which fits the curvature of the wrist and can be controlled by both men and women. It is especially suitable for daily commuting, outdoor travel, or those who want a low-key luxury style.
The most surprising thing is the accessory configuration. Two watch straps are delivered directly from the factory: one white leather and one fluororubber quick-release tape. The fluororubber material is soft and skin-friendly, and you won’t sweat when you wear it all day long. Changing the strap can be done in a second, making it extremely practical.
In terms of luminous performance, although it is not as durable as the original Super-LumiNova, the M+ uses imported luminous material, which is bright enough and responsive. It is no problem for reading at night. It is sufficient and easy to use.
Taken together, this Lake Tahoe Special Edition from M+ Factory has already stood in the first echelon of current replica watches in terms of material selection, craftsmanship and wearing experience. It’s not perfect – such as the slow-jumping calendar and short power reserve, but these “small shortcomings” are completely acceptable at this price. If you want a pilot watch that is good-looking, full of details, looks good when worn without breaking the bank, then this one is really worth putting in your shopping cart.
Not all replicas are called M+. This one may be the closest way for you to get to “Lake Tahoe”.