As a player who has been involved in replica bezels for a long time, I have long been immune to the word “upgrade” – until I got this 26420 black ceramic from the APS factory. It is not a minor repair, but a true “rebirth”.
In the past, the 26420 on the market all used 7750 to modify the deck movement. The functions were incomplete, the adjustment was rough, and even the most basic flyback timing could not be performed. This time APS directly launched the 4401 card-free integrated movement, which is not only structurally complete, but also enables original factory-level flyback operation: after the timer is over, it returns to zero with one click and automatically restarts, without the need to press the pause button multiple times. With this detail, veteran players can tell the difference at a glance.
The first feeling when you use it is that it is “light” and “stable”. The watch case is made of 316L fine steel, and the ring, handle, and side tips are all made of black ceramic. The brushed texture is so delicate that it can reflect the fire. In particular, all the ring screws have been sunk and the directions are unified. It makes people with obsessive-compulsive disorder feel comfortable. The strap is made of quick-release rubber, which is soft and close to the wrist and does not stick even if you sweat in the summer. The matte texture of the buckle and the deep-pressed engraving make it full of sincerity.
The board is full of surprises. The track pattern on the three small timing dials is three-dimensional and full, and the CD pattern on the outer ring is arranged vertically, just like the original. The font uses high-temperature oil pressure technology, the three-dimensional effect is as strong as a relief, and the numbers on the calendar window are accurately centered – this kind of detail is often the most likely to overturn when cheap replicas are made. The central axis of the pointer is polished and rounded without burrs, and the red, blue, and white colors of the second hand are accurately matched. Even the logo on the crown is three-dimensionally etched. The thickness is 14.1mm and the diameter of the watch is 43mm, which is completely in line with the original size.
What makes me most convinced that it is “really upgraded” is the movement structure. Pull out the crown and the balance wheel will stop (hacking function). If you look closely, you can see the counterweight on the balance wheel – this is the core symbol of card-free adjustment. The old version relies on fine-tuning by the speed needle, which has large errors and is easy to drift; while the non-stuck version relies on precise weight position control, greatly improving stability and anti-interference capabilities, and making the running time more reliable.
Equipped with a highly transparent sapphire mirror, it is as transparent as nothing. Whether it is daily commuting or sports scenes, it takes into account visual recognition and practical performance. To be honest, to be able to get such a complete, highly restored, and truly functional replica at this price, APS has indeed made a big move this time.
If you are also looking for a chronograph that can be worn out and withstand careful inspection, stop staring at the old models with modified movements – this 26420 black ceramic is worth your personal experience.