Professional Comparative Review: Rolex Daytona M126500LN VS Factory (Dandong 4131)vs. CLEAN Factory (Shanghai 4131)

Preface

In the replica watch industry, the Daytona series equipped with the 4131 movement has long been regarded as a benchmark for precision craftsmanship. Both VS Factory and CLEAN Factory have released versions featuring the 4131 movement, yet their core differences lie in movement finishing, detail replication, and operational stability. This article will provide an objective comparison across three key areas: movement architecture, build quality, and reliability.

• The two watches compared this time are Daytona Panda (Rolex m126500LN-0001) and Black Daytona (Rolex m126500LN-0002).

Frontal comparison

Rolex Daytona Panda m126500LN-0001:

On the left is the VS Factory version, while on the right is the Clean Factory version. Externally, the two are nearly identical, with no discernible differences apart from slight variations in dial color and the movement used. In terms of color, Clean’s dial has a marginally warmer tone, whereas VS leans slightly cooler—though the discrepancy is minimal and barely noticeable under normal lighting conditions.

Rolex Daytona Black m126500LN-0002:

The key difference lies in the coloration of the three sub-dials: VS Factory’s exhibit a slightly lighter, near-white tone, while Clean Factory’s lean toward a subtle grayish hue.

Dial Details Comparison

Dial font、sub-dials and hands basically no difference.

Sub-dials And Hands Comparison

Dial Font Comparison

Case Bottom Comparison

The polishing and beveling treatments are uniformly consistent, with no discernible differences.

Watch Strap Comparison

The bracelet finishing on both versions is executed to a high standard. The clasp crown features a stepped design with distinct elevation levels, while its base has undergone polished treatment, yielding a perceptibly smooth tactile surface.Upon opening the clasp, you’ll observe internally engraved markings—the serial codes differ between factories: VS Factory uses 3XU, whereas Clean Factory employs M5X.

Movement Comparison

We can observe that the Dandong 4131 movement demonstrates significantly finer Geneva striping compared to the Shanghai 4131. Additionally, the bridge plates of the Shanghai 4131 appear darker due to disparities in plating techniques.

Both movements feature angled polishing and beveled edges, yet the Dandong 4131 exhibits superior vertical striations on its bevels.

Regarding engraving quality, the Dandong 4131’s markings are sharper and more precise than those on the Shanghai variant

For the shock absorbers, the Dandong 4131 retains the KIF system, while the Shanghai 4131 uses a faux-free-sprung balance cover (with actual regulatory studs hidden beneath the plate).”

Movement Beveling And Vertical Striations Comparison

Movement Engraving Comparison

Movement Shock Absorbers Comparison

Conclusion

In terms of performance and reliability, there’s no discernible difference between the Dandong 4131 and Shanghai 4131 movements—their disparities lie solely in finishing quality.For a watch that costs $600-800, this level of craftsmanship in the movement is extraordinary.Additionally, the VS Factory (Dandong 4131) is slightly more affordable than Clean Factory’s Shanghai 4131.As for which one to choose? We trust you’ve already reached your conclusion after reading this comparison.