The rumor mill has been spinning for months, but it seems the fate of Clean Factory is finally sealed. They’re not coming back. For anyone deep into the replica watch scene, this isn’t just gossip; it’s a market earthquake. Clean was a titan, and their sudden departure has left a power vacuum that every other factory is scrambling to fill.
A word to the wise: if you see a dealer still advertising “new” Clean Factory stock, be extremely cautious. Those familiar stickers on the bracelet and caseback can be easily faked and bought in bulk. What you’re likely getting is old stock, a watch from a different factory, or worse, a scam.
In the wake of this shakeup, two major moves have signaled a new era. First, VS Factory, already a powerhouse with its Omega Seamaster line, made a strategic play by slightly discounting its existing Datejust inventory. It was a clear move to capture Clean’s orphaned customer base. Second, Q Factory, traditionally known for its Day-Date and Daytona models, threw its hat into the ring with a new “weighted” version of the Datejust.
The battle for the crown is officially on. And from where I’m standing, VS Factory isn’t just playing defense; they’re making a power move with the release of their Datejust V2.
The VS Factory Datejust V2: What’s Actually New?
Timing is everything. VS’s decision to launch an improved Datejust now is no coincidence. They are aggressively positioning themselves as the new top dog in the super clone Rolex game. This initial V2 update focuses on three popular 41mm models with jubilee bracelets: black, blue, and green dials.
So, what’s the real story behind the upgrades? VS lists several tweaks, but one improvement is immediately obvious to the naked eye: the bezel.
The fluted bezel on the V2 has a dramatically more three-dimensional presence. Each crystal catches the light with greater intensity, giving the entire watch a brighter, more luxurious sparkle. VS claims this is achieved through a new platinum plating process, and if the photos are any indication, it’s a significant step closer to the genuine article’s iconic gleam.
The second notable upgrade is in the heft. The V2 now weighs in at approximately 132.3 grams, a 4-gram increase over the previous version. This brings it nearly identical to the weight of a genuine Rolex Datejust 41. While a few grams might seem insignificant on paper, on the wrist, it’s these subtle details that contribute to the convincing “feel” of a high-quality timepiece.
The Bigger Picture: A Market in Flux
The closure of Clean Factory was a loss, but it has ignited a fierce competition that ultimately benefits enthusiasts. Factories like VS and Q are no longer just competing on who can make a passable copy; they’re being pushed to innovate and refine. The question is, will this competition lead to genuine improvements and fair prices, or will we see brands simply hiking prices for minor tweaks?
VS Factory’s V2 Datejust is a promising sign. It shows a factory responding to market dynamics not just with marketing, but with tangible, meaningful upgrades. They are making a compelling case that they have the technical skill and ambition to lead the pack.
For collectors, this new era of competition is exciting. It means more choices, better quality, and factories that actually have to listen to what enthusiasts want. The throne is empty, and the race to sit on it has just begun.
The pictures of V2 green Datejust II from VS
