Buying A Rep - What's A Superrep / Superclone?

This is actually quite complicated even though it is really pretty basic. Simply put, a superrep / superclone is a replica built to a set of evolving standards that are put in place and gauged by a group of ever changing enthusiasts who grade replicas based on quality and accuracy when compared to the genuine article, as well as to the replica predecessors of the particular model, across all makers. They typically have the best combination of parts, at that particular point in time, to emulate the properties of the original sample. Pretty much everything is graded, from size and shape, font and printing, color accuracy, movement aesthetics and accuracy, gen parts compatibility, etc, etc, etc. Simple, right?

That said, you will see just about every TD claim certain watches are superreps, using that particular moniker as well as "best", "latest", "1:1", etc. After all, they are in the business of selling watches, shouldn't they know? Nope, notta chance. What the trusted dealers are really referencing is that particular watch is the latest rendition put out by that particular factory. They have a tendency NOT to update old listings, which makes it seem like every model is the absolute bestest... Hundreds of models have come down the pipeline adorned with "best model" that turned out to be not so best model. I've personally seen my fair share of junk labeled "latest" and "1:1". The fact is, the enthusiast communities that can be found on RWI, RG, RWG, etc are a far better gauge as to what should be considered a super replica. A lot less skin in the game, if you catch my drift.

Most importantly, it's an evolving moniker. A superrep today may be considered average at best tomorrow. A model from 3 years ago may still hold the crown. We only have what the makers put out to gauge past and present of a particular model, compared to the holy grail, the genuine article. Manufacturers take steps backwards all the time. How many watches have you seen that pushed the envelope across the board, only to fall short in one key area or two? Worse is when those key areas were BETTER on the predecessor. Talk about a kick to the jewels.

I tell people to buy what they like. Buy a watch that speaks to you. One that fits your style, your wardrobe and your wrist, lol. I dig a superrep. I've owned many. Most are no longer super reps, at least in my book. The superrep craze is most certainly fun and is one facet of collecting replicas. It however shouldn't just be about that. If that's the path you choose, do your research. Read the forums and reach out to those communities for guidance. Keep in mind that superreps are ever evolving, so enjoy yours while you can!

An interesting tidbit, in our shop we reference complete watches as superreps and standalone movements as superclones...This is the way.