Whether in international brand watch factories or counterfeit watch manufacturing plants, the use of a watch timing machine is a crucial part of watch authentication and evaluation. The machine allows for clear observation of a watch’s running condition and any potential faults. By comparing the timing machine parameters of a replica watch with those of an authentic watch, we can assess the performance of the replica.
Standard Parameters of Genuine Mechanical Watch Movements
Below are the parameters for genuine watch performance, which can be used as a reference to evaluate the performance of replica watches:
- Daily Deviation: According to the observatory certification standard, the error for 24-hour timekeeping is +6 to -4 seconds per day. Most high-end brand movements adhere to this standard.
- Amplitude: The swing amplitude of the balance wheel, with a normal range of 250 to 320 degrees. Most watches require maintenance if the amplitude falls below 220 degrees.
- Beat Error: The deviation in the balance wheel’s oscillation, with a normal value being within 0.8 milliseconds. Excessive beat error accelerates pivot wear.
- Beat Rate: The frequency at which the balance wheel oscillates per hour. This is a fixed value set by the manufacturer. The common frequency for automatic movements is 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph).
Special Mechanical Movement Parameters
Certain brand mechanical watches have unique oscillation frequencies that differ from the standard. For example, the 25,200 vph frequency is relatively unique. This frequency is set during the manufacturing of the movement. Changing the oscillation frequency requires redesigning the core components of the movement, a task as complex as designing a new movement. Currently, replica watches cannot achieve this level of precision. Identifying specific brand movements through unique frequencies is a quick method. For instance, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in-house calibers 3120 and 3126 have a frequency of 21,600 vph, whereas replicas often use the 7750 base movement with a frequency of 28,800 vph.
By using these parameters, one can effectively distinguish between a high-quality replica and an authentic mechanical watch.
