Quick answer
A 3358BR replica watch with moon phase is an aftermarket copy of the Breguet Classique reference 3358BR. The original is a rose gold dress watch with a moon phase display. Replica versions differ in movement, moon phase function, case finish, and dial printing. Check those four parts first.
What 3358BR means
Breguet uses reference numbers with metal codes. The number 3358 is the model number. BR means rose gold in Breguet catalogs. The original reference often appears as 3358BR/12/986. The watch has a round case, a silver guilloché dial, Roman numerals, and a moon phase window at 6 o'clock. Case size is about 36 mm. Thickness is about 9 mm. It uses a self-winding movement.
Moon phase: real vs fake
A real moon phase tracks the 29.5-day lunar cycle. A fake moon phase is a day/night disc. It switches once every 24 hours. To test a replica, set the moon phase to full moon. Wait 7 days. The disc should move about one quarter of the cycle. If it moves one full turn, it is not a moon phase. Many low-cost replicas use a 24-hour disc. Better replicas use a 29.5-day gear train or a module.
3358br replica watch comparison
Parts to compare
- Case: 18k rose gold on original. Replicas use gold plating, PVD, or stainless steel. Plating thickness is often 3 to 5 microns.
- Dial: guilloché pattern. Original uses hand-turned or stamped silver. Replicas use printed or stamped brass.
- Hands: Breguet hands have hollow tips. Replicas may have solid tips or wrong length.
- Moon phase disc: original has realistic moon and stars. Replica may use stickers or flat printing.
- Movement: original uses Swiss self-winding. Replicas use Asian automatic, often a modified Miyota 9015 or Seagull ST series.
- Strap: original uses alligator leather. Replicas use calf leather or synthetic.
How to set moon phase
Do not set the moon phase between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. The gear train is engaged. Use the corrector at 8 o'clock or a pusher if the model has one. Set the moon phase to the current lunar day. Use a lunar calendar. Then set the time. Wind the watch 20 to 30 turns before setting.
Buying checklist
- Ask for a video of the moon phase moving over 24 hours.
- Ask for timegrapher results. Rate should be -10 to +15 seconds per day. Amplitude should be 250 to 320 degrees.
- Check caseback photos for engravings. Reference, serial, and metal marks should match.
- Ask for water resistance test. Most replicas are not tested.
- Check return policy. Moon phase faults often appear after one week.
Legal note
A replica is not a Breguet product. It has no brand warranty. Breguet trademarks and design patents apply. US customs can seize counterfeit watches. Resale value is low. Service centers may refuse to work on replicas. If you need a moon phase watch with warranty, buy from an authorized dealer or a reputable pre-owned seller.