While, of course, the early fake Rolex Daytona adaptations of the reverse panda dial format are among the most iconic, and therefore most sought after, vintage references of the kind (specifically the Ref. 6263), the first notable chronograph with a reverse panda dial was introduced by perfect replica Breitling in 1957 with the Superocean Chronograph. To pay proper tribute to the brand’s influence on the history of this category at large, it only seems fitting to begin our journey here with the luxury fake Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 (though in all honesty, I would have much preferred to have started with the modern interpretation of that Superocean Chrono, but the reverse panda dial option was so popular it already sold out. The traditional panda dial, however, is still available).
Tracing its roots all the way back to the 1940s, cheap replica Breitling resuscitated its premier collection for the watchmaking world of the 21st century back in 2018. Carrying the torch of the quintessential combination of dressy elegance and function-forward design that defined the line since its inception, this modern interpretation of the 1:1 fake Breitling Premier Chronograph has a reasonably approachable diameter of 42mm, a profile of 13.6mm, and relatively short lugs with a lug width of 22mm, making more easy-wearing on the wrist than quite a few chronographs in the brand’s modern catalog – even more so when paired with the dressy leather strap seen here. Crafted out of stainless steel, the case has both brightly polished and brushed finished surfaces, and you can find the oversized, rigidly textured crown engraved with the brand’s cursive ‘B logo, ‘and two relatively flat rectangular pushers to activate chronograph functions, to the right.
Departing from the mid-century style Arabic numerals of the original, the aaa quality replica Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 has opted instead for applied rectangular indices, as well as thin pencil hands that are coated with Super-LumiNova. Further attributing to the overall sense of depth, a slightly raised creamy white tachymeter scale encircles the black reverse panda dial. Of course, the two chronograph subdials are executed in a matching creamy white shade that stands out from the black dial, and sport a slightly corrugated finish. You have your running 60-second scale at nine o’clock and your 30-minute scale at three o’clock.
Working hard within, you’ll find Swiss super clone Breitling‘s in-house crafted B01 caliber. This COSC-certified movement is equipped with the brand’s patented spring system, which allows for quick setting of the date functions at six o’clock, hacking seconds, hand winding, and a power reserve of up to 72 hours – and, you can see it all in action thanks to the exhibition style caseback.
