It is no secret that I have a weak spot for well-built dive watches that dont cost a kings ransom. While the original Breitling Superocean Automatic 46 is a revered icon in the world of professional diving watches, its price tag often puts it out of reach for many enthusiasts. Today, I have in front of me a replica of the Breitling Superocean Automatic 46 Stainless Steel Watch, reference A17378E71C1S1. This homage piece promises the same bold aesthetics and robust design cues at a fraction of the cost. Can it deliver on the promise of being a legitimate alternative? Let’s find out.



When the package arrived, I felt that familiar excitement. Ive been a long-time admirer of Breitlings Superocean lineage—its 46mm case, unidirectional bezel, and high-contrast dial are hallmarks of a true tool watch. The replica industry has matured significantly, and some pieces now match the originals in fit and finish. This particular model aims to capture the spirit of the Superocean without the premium price.



A 46mm case diameter: is bigger better?

You read it correctly. The replica Breitling Superocean comes in at a substantial 46mm on the wrist. My vintage Seiko Professional 600M from 1975 (ref. 6159-7010) measures 50mm, so I thought I’d handle this size easily. While my daily wear usually ranges from 39mm to 43mm, this 46mm case sits surprisingly well. The lugs are sleek and dont overhang my 7-inch wrist, giving it a commanding yet wearable presence. Of course, the screw-down caseback ensures water resistance, with the replica claiming up to 200 meters (20 BAR) depth capability — more than enough for recreational diving or poolside adventures.



The case is made of 316L stainless steel with a brushed finish, very reminiscent of the genuine Breitlings mature surfacing. The crown is positioned at 3 o’clock, with replica cartier watches screw-down functionality to guarantee water integrity. Unlike some bulky dive watches, the crown doesnt dig into the top of my hand — a relief for all-day wear.



When comparing to the original, the replica excels in delivering the same aggressive, sporty look. The genuine Breitling Superocean Automatic 46 uses a sapphire crystal with AR coating, and this replica also features a flat sapphire crystal with blue AR coating that provides excellent clarity. The bezel is unidirectional with 120 clicks, and the action is firm with zero play — a pleasant surprise at this price point. The bezel insert is ceramic, just like the original, with a luminous pip at 12 o’clock. Under a loupe, the font alignment on the bezel ring is slightly off, but to the naked eye, its nearly indistinguishable.



The dial is the heart of any dive watch. The replica Breitling Superocean has a black sunburst dial that catches light beautifully. The hour markers are applied with white Super-LumiNova, and the hands are polished and filled with lume. The date window at 3 o’clock is magnified, though the cyclops magnification may be slightly less pronounced than the genuine. Legibility is outstanding — high contrast white against black makes for instant reading even in bright sunlight. Bold minute and hour hands mimic the genuine design perfectly. The Breitling logo and Superocean text are printed sharply, though keen-eyed enthusiasts will notice the font thickness varies slightly. Nonetheless, for 95% of observers, it passes the test.



One key advantage of the replica is the movement. While the genuine Breitling Superocean uses an in-house Breitling Caliber 17 (based on ETA 2824), the replica is powered by a reliable automatic movement like the Citizen Miyota 8215 or Seiko NH35. These are workhorses known for accuracy and durability. My sample runs at +10 seconds per day, which is within acceptable tolerances for a casual wear watch. The hacking and hand-winding functions work smoothly. The rotor noise is reasonably quiet. Considering the price difference (the genuine costs around $4,000–$5,000 USD, while this replica is around $150–$250), the value proposition is undeniable. You get the same visual impact, water resistance, and robust timekeeping for a price that leaves thousands in your pocket.



But lets talk about the elephant in the room: the original vs. replica debate. Many enthusiasts swear by authenticity, and I respect that. The genuine Breitling Superocean comes with Swiss Made certification, a prestigious brand heritage, and a warranty. However, for the cost of one genuine watch, you could buy twenty replicas — or invest in other hobbies. What the replica offers is an entry point montre homme casio for those who admire the design but cannot justify the expense. The fit and finish on this replica are surprisingly good. The bracelet is solid link with a folding clasp and a divers extension, though the clasps push-button release could feel a bit lighter than the original. The end links fit snugly into the lugs with no rattling. The bracelets brushed finishing matches the case perfectly.



Another area where the replica shines is in its accessories. It arrives in a sturdy box with a warranty card and a polishing cloth — basic but adequate. The genuine box is fancier but ultimately discarded or stored. For the price, I’m not complaining.



Of course, there are compromises. The luminous material on the replica fades after a couple of hours, unlike the originals Super-LumiNova that lasts all night. The bezel action, while good, may not feel as premium as the genuines knurled bezel. The crown threads are not as buttery. But these are minor quibbles when you consider the price. The overall case construction is robust, and the screw-down crown offers a satisfying click when tightened.



I also want to highlight the dimensions. With a 46mm case, 14mm thickness, and 24mm lug width, this replica wears true to size. The sapphire crystal is slightly domed, adding vintage charm. The case back is solid engraved with the Breitling logo and specifications — no exhibition window, which is fine for a dive watch.



To be honest, I approached this replica with skepticism. But after wearing it for a week, Ive grown fond of its bold presence. It feels substantial on the wrist, and the dial readability is top-notch. At a recent meetup with friends, no one questioned its authenticity. One fellow enthusiast even complimented the Breitling on my wrist. Thats the power of a well-executed replica.



For those considering a replica Breitling Superocean, here are some tips: look for models with ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal. Avoid mineral glass versions as they scratch easily. Pay attention to the lume quality — some cheaper replicas fake Breitling vs real comparison use poor lume. The one I tested has decent lume that lasts a few hours, sufficient for evening wear. The bracelet is comfortable, though I’d recommend replacing it with a rubber strap for a true dive watch feel.



The replica market has evolved, and pieces like this demonstrate that you can achieve 90% of the look and feel for less than 10% of the replica Breitling Superocean Automatic 46 A17378E71C1S1 cost. Is it for everyone? No. But if you want a durable, attractive dive watch without breaking the bank, this replica is a compelling option.



In the end, whether you choose the genuine Breitling Superocean or a replica depends on your priorities. If brand prestige and perfect craftsmanship matter, go genuine. If you value aesthetics and functionality at an accessible price, the replica is a smart choice. I’ve worn both, and I can honestly say that the replica captures the essence of the Superocean experience. It’s a ticket to enjoy a high-end design without the high-end anxiety of scratching a $5,000 piece.