VS Factory Replica Grey Datejust with Free-Sprung 3235 Movement

Free-sprung movements are becoming increasingly popular. The next two years will likely be one of the most important periods for major factories to compete for dominance in the super clone Rolex market. The emergence and rapid rise of free-sprung movements have weakened the advantages once enjoyed by the established factories that previously controlled a large share of the replica Rolex market.

Although some major factories, such as VS, have also begun releasing free-sprung movements, I still feel that its versions are somewhat unconvincing. For example, the free-sprung 3235 movement it released recently does not have regulating weights on the balance wheel, which makes it feel less like a genuine free-sprung movement.

By comparison, the JH3235 free-sprung movement used by QF does have regulating weights on the balance wheel. However, most customers are unlikely to adjust those weights themselves because specialized tools and professional skills are required. This means that, regardless of which free-sprung 3235 version is used, the movement’s accuracy will most likely still be adjusted through the regulating stud located above the balance wheel.

I previously introduced the titanium Yacht-Master from VS Factory. It was the first Rolex replica from VS to feature a free-sprung movement. I believe VS will gradually release more models equipped with free-sprung movements, and the next one could possibly be a Daytona powered by a free-sprung 4131 movement.

Following the launch of the titanium Yacht-Master, VS Factory has now begun using the free-sprung 3235 movement across a wide range of its Datejust models. Today, I am going to introduce one of its flagship models: the grey-dial Datejust fitted with a Jubilee bracelet.

I really like this Datejust, and it is also an important model for judging a factory’s overall manufacturing capabilities. The brushed sunburst finish pairs beautifully with the gray dial. The brushing has been applied with just the right intensity, allowing the sunburst pattern to remain clearly visible. Some factories make this finish too fine and delicate, which is not necessarily a good thing. Under direct sunlight, the dial shows subtle variations when viewed from different angles. This dynamic light-reflecting effect complements the strong reflections produced by VS Factory’s improved fluted bezel perfectly.

As I mentioned before, VS Factory is gradually improving one particular detail of the hands across its Rolex models, making them appear more three-dimensional and better defined.

This free-sprung 3235 movement was modified from VS Factory’s DD3235. No major changes were made, the main difference is that the unnecessary regulator post above the balance wheel has been removed. This modification has not affected the movement’s stability. The free-sprung 3235 also retains a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.