What a replica Clé de Cartier 38mm is
Cartier launched the Clé de Cartier in 2015. The line covers 31 mm, 35 mm, 38 mm, 40 mm and 41 mm cases. A replica is a watch built by a third party that copies the case shape, the dial and the key-shaped crown. Cartier does not make it, sell it or service it.
The 38 mm size sits between the 35 mm and 40 mm models. Cartier offered the 38 mm mostly in 18k pink gold. Sellers who list a 38 mm steel Clé describe a size and metal pair the maison did not build. Check the reference number against the Cartier catalog before you trust a listing.
Genuine 38 mm specs
- Movement: Cartier caliber 1847 MC, automatic
- Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour, or 4 Hz
- Power reserve: about 42 hours
- Jewels: 23
- Crystal: sapphire, front and back on most references
- Water resistance: 30 m, or 3 bar, on the automatic models
- Crown: key shape, set with a sapphire or spinel cabochon
Specs vary by reference. Confirm the exact number before you compare anything else.
Where replicas differ
Most replicas in this size use a 316L stainless steel case with gold plating. Plating runs about 3 to 5 microns on the better examples. Genuine pink gold is 18k, or 75% gold by weight, and carries a hallmark on the caseback.
Replica movements are Asian clones of the ETA 2824 or a Miyota 9015. A Miyota 9015 beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour, so the seconds hand sweep matches the 1847 MC. Case thickness, crown torque and bracelet tolerances do not match.
Start with the crown. The genuine key-shaped crown turns with light resistance and sits flush to the case. Cabochons on replicas show a flat top and a dull tint. Under 10x magnification, dial text on a replica shows thick strokes and soft edges.
Legal status in the United States
Counterfeit watches are illegal to import and to sell in the US. 19 U.S.C. 1526(e) lets Customs and Border Protection seize and forfeit merchandise that carries a counterfeit mark. 18 U.S.C. 2320 makes trafficking in counterfeit goods a federal crime. A first offense carries a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $2,000,000 fine for an individual. CBP can seize the item at the border for personal shipments as well.
Checks before you buy
- Ask for the reference number. Compare it with the Cartier catalog.
- Request photos of the caseback engraving at 10x magnification.
- Ask which movement is fitted. Get the caliber name and beat rate in writing.
- Weigh the watch. Plated steel and solid gold differ by tens of grams.
- Confirm return terms and payment method in writing.
No replica carries a Cartier warranty. Cartier service centers do not repair counterfeit watches. That leaves resale, repair and parts support at zero.