In high-end replica bezels, the movement is the soul. When it comes to the replica level of Rolex 3235 movement, one name cannot be avoided –Dandong 3235 from VS factory. It is currently the only replica movement on the market that is truly independently developed and restores the original structure. Most other manufacturers rely on Shanghai movements for “magic modifications” and use the “Dandong” banner to confuse the public. But here comes the problem:Is what you bought really the VS original Dandong 3235?
Many people still use the old method to judge: see if there are 27 balls? Is the little golden stake on the left or the right? Is the engraving clear? Are the shock absorbers in the correct position? In fact, these are alreadyOut of date and even reversely exploited by counterfeiters.
For example, it used to be said that “the small gold pile on the right side is a characteristic of Dandong”, but now even Shanghai Movement has moved the gold pile to the right side; do you mean it depends on the number of balls? The current mainstream version of the real VS Dandong 3235 still has 7 ball bearings, not 27 in all series. If you insist on these points, you will easily fall into the trap set by the merchants.
Then,What is the truly reliable method of identification?
There is only one answer:Look at the dynamic structural design of the column wheel。
When you pull the crown out one or two gears, pay attention to the column wheel area under the movement bridge. The real VS Dandong 3235 has a unique “sink-lift” linkage mechanism: the column wheel assembly, which was originally slightly lower than the deck plane, will rise when shifting gears.Automatically raises to be flush with the splint or even slightly convex, forming obvious visual changes. This is a sophisticated mechanical linkage design that is not only beautiful, but also closer to the original operating logic.
This “moving” structure is the core result of the VS factory’s many years of research and development, and it is currently impossible for other factories on the market to copy it. Even if the appearance of the Shanghai movement is imitated, the internal structure is still static and fixed.There was no change before and after the crown removal, you can tell the difference at a glance.
There is another auxiliary judgment point:Code below the balance wheel. The code of VS original Dandong 3235 starts with the letter “S”, which is one of its exclusive logos. Although some of the rear engravings can be forged, combined with the dynamic performance of the column wheel, double verification is more reliable.
It is worth mentioning that VS currently has limited production capacity, slow shipments and small batches, resulting in market demand exceeding supply. Because of this, a large number of “Li Gui” under the banner of “VS same style” and “Dandong structure” have taken advantage of the opportunity and attracted novices with low prices. Remember:Without a dynamic column wheel, it wouldn’t be a true Dandong 3235.
So, don’t be fooled by fancy propaganda before buying it next time. Open the bottom cover and pull out the crown to see if the “moving soul” is there. This is the most hard-core way to check authenticity.
If you want to play with high imitation watches, understanding the movement is the key. Only by choosing the right core can you wear it with quality and use it with peace of mind.
This article is a summary of the actual experience of watch enthusiasts, aiming to help consumers make rational purchases and reject the consumption traps caused by poor information.