QF Rolex Day-Date 36 Ref. 128238 Gradient Green Diamond Dial
A technically significant 160g tungsten-weighted release that resolves the historical weight discrepancy of precious metal replicas.
Powered by Clone 3255 Movement
The mechanical core of this Day-Date is the Clone 3255 caliber. Designed to mimic the genuine Rolex movement’s operation, it supports the dual-aperture calendar complication, allowing for independent, rapid-setting of both the day of the week and the date. The movement operates at a standard 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), ensuring the seconds hand sweeps with the correct visual fluidity expected of a modern Rolex caliber.
⏱ Accuracy Profile:
Regulated to approximately ±10–15 seconds per day. While it does not match the strict Superlative Chronometer standards of the genuine article, it provides reliable daily timekeeping for a mechanical clone.
- ✅ Power Reserve: Approximately 36 hours
- ✅ Complications: Instantaneous day and date in apertures, stop-seconds for precise time setting
- ✅ Winding Direction: Bidirectional via perpetual rotor
Technical Specifications
THE BUILDTungsten-Weighted 904L Steel
The monobloc middle case integrates a tungsten alloy core to achieve a 160g total weight, plated in 18K yellow gold. The 36mm diameter remains true to the classic Day-Date proportions.
THE DIALGradient Green Diamond
Features a Gradient Green sunburst finish that darkens toward the perimeter. Hour markers are simulated diamonds (baguette at 6 and 9, brilliant elsewhere) set in gold-plated surrounds.
THE BEZELFluted 18K Gold Plated
The fluted bezel is sharply machined to catch the light, accurately reflecting the geometry of the genuine Rolex component, finished with a matching yellow gold tone.
THE BRACELETPresidential Crownclasp
Constructed with semi-circular three-piece links. The concealed folding Crownclasp operates with satisfying tension, maintaining the seamless look of the bracelet.
Why Q Factory (QF) for This Reference?
Many collectors ask: “Why not GMF or APSF?”
While GMF produces excellent Day-Date models, QF’s specific execution of the tungsten weighting process is highly regarded. By achieving the 160-gram mass, QF eliminates the immediate ‘tell’ of a lightweight steel replica when handled. Furthermore, their application of the gradient green dial avoids the overly vibrant or flat tones sometimes seen in earlier iterations from competing factories.
Full Disclosure: The 18K yellow gold plating tone, while highly accurate under natural light, can occasionally present slightly too warm under harsh artificial lighting compared to genuine solid 18k gold. Additionally, the day disc font thickness can exhibit minor batch variances.
Data Sheet
| MODEL REFERENCE |
m128238-0069 |
| FACTORY / VERSION |
Q Factory (QF) Weighted Edition |
| MOVEMENT |
Clone 3255 Movement |
| CASE MATERIAL |
904L Oystersteel + Tungsten Core (18K Gold Plated) |
| WEIGHT & THICKNESS |
160 g | ~12.0 mm |
| CRYSTAL & LUME |
Sapphire with 2.5x Cyclops | Chromalight (where applicable) |
| DIMENSIONS |
36 mm × ~43.5 mm × ~12.0 mmManual measurements — minor tolerances apply. |
| WATER RESISTANCE |
50 Meters (Stated) — professional pressure test recommended before swimming |
Collector Q&A
Q: How does the 160g weight of the QF Day-Date 36 compare to the genuine solid gold model?
A: The genuine 18k gold Day-Date 36 weighs approximately 160-165 grams depending on the number of links installed. Q Factory achieves this 160g mass by integrating a tungsten alloy core into the case and bracelet components, making it virtually indistinguishable on the wrist in terms of physical heft compared to standard 120g steel replicas.
Q: Does the day and date change instantaneously at midnight on the Clone 3255 movement?
A: Yes, the clone 3255 movement replicates the genuine instantaneous day and date jump at midnight, rather than a slow roll over several hours. However, the exact changeover can occur anywhere within 5 minutes of 12:00, which is standard tolerance for this clone caliber.
Q: Will the 18K gold plating on the QF m128238 fade or tarnish with daily wear?
A: While QF uses a robust PVD gold plating process over the 904L steel and tungsten base, it is a surface treatment and is susceptible to chemical and abrasive wear over time. Avoid exposure to harsh solvents, perfumes, and saltwater to maximize the longevity of the gold tone.
Q: Are the diamond hour markers on the gradient green dial genuine?
A: No, the factory uses high-clarity cubic zirconia (or synthetic moissanite) to replicate the factory baguette and brilliant-cut diamonds at the hour markers. While visually striking to the naked eye, they do not possess the same refractive index or hardness as natural diamonds when examined under a horological loupe.
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