In the replica camp of Audemars Piguet, 26331 “Panda Plate” has always been the most popular. However, there are many versions on the market with uneven workmanship, and only a few of them are truly capable. Recently, the APS factory, which has been focusing on AP for many years, launched the new 26331 Panda plate. With nearly “pixel-level” restored details, it has once again refreshed the upper limit of the craftsmanship of replica watches. What’s so strong about it? Today we will start from the actual shooting details and find out.
First of all, APS, as a veteran factory that has been involved in Audemars Piguet replicas for more than ten years, has a very good grasp of AP’s design language and craftsmanship essence. This 26331 is available in two colors: white plate and blue plate. The plate surface is polished with high-precision spiral grain. The texture is fine and layered. It shows the unique three-dimensional feeling of the original factory when illuminated by light. The layout of the small chronograph dial is precise, the contrast between black and white is sharp, and the “panda dial” is full of classic charm.
The hands are equally stunning – polished, sharp and burr-free, with clean edges, almost indistinguishable from the originals. The brand LOGO, whether it is the three-dimensional relief on the dial or the engraving on the buckle and bottom cover, has a certain degree of depth and natural rounded corners, and the details are clearly controlled by an expert.
The craftsmanship of the case and outer ring is even more of a highlight. The side brushing is fine and even, and the ring edge is polished like a mirror. The transition between the two processes is natural and there is no sense of cheapness. The strap also continues to be of high quality: the brushed texture is clear and consistent, the buckle LOGO is three-dimensional and deep, the opening and closing feels solid, and the wearing comfort is the same as the original.
In terms of movement, APS is equipped with Dandong 4801 self-winding movement. Its functions are completely consistent with the original version – timing, calendar, and adjustment logic, and there is no obstacle to daily use. The only small regret is that the power reserve is about 40 hours, slightly lower than the original 72 hours, but for non-extreme players, the impact is minimal.
The details of the bottom cover are also not perfunctory: the overall round brushing + the central sandblasting LOGO, the lettering is clear and powerful, and the stamping depth is in place. The difference with other brand replicas can be seen at a glance.
Taken together, APS’s 26331 Panda dial has almost achieved “full distribution” in the current replica field in terms of dial, hands, case shape, strap, bottom cover and even movement functions. If you pursue a high degree of restoration and refuse to make do with it, then it is undoubtedly the most worth-buying version of 26331 at the moment – no one else.