What is a replica Ballon Bleu 33680?
A replica Ballon Bleu 33680 is a counterfeit watch that copies the Cartier Ballon Bleu. The number 33680 is not an official Cartier reference. Cartier uses references like W69012Z4, W69010Z4, and W6920071. Replica sellers use 33680 to label a specific version. Most listings for 33680 describe a 33mm case with a blue dial and a steel bracelet.
Official Ballon Bleu specs
The Cartier Ballon Bleu has a round case with a blue spinel cabochon crown. The dial has Roman numerals, a guilloché pattern, and sword-shaped hands. The crystal is sapphire. Case sizes include 33mm, 36mm, and 42mm. Movements include quartz and automatic. The 33mm model often uses a quartz movement. The 36mm and 42mm models use automatic movements.
What to check on a replica 33680
- Case diameter: measure the case. A 33mm replica should be 33mm wide without the crown.
- Crown: the crown should have a blue cabochon. The cabochon should be smooth and set flush.
- Dial: check the guilloché pattern. It should be centered and even. Roman numerals should be printed, not painted.
- Hands: sword-shaped hands should be blue. On replicas, the blue may be paint, not heat-treated steel.
- Movement: many replicas use a Japanese quartz or a Chinese automatic. A Swiss automatic is rare at low prices.
- Case back: engraving should be crisp. Reference numbers and serial numbers should match the model.
Materials and finish
Replica 33680 watches use 316L stainless steel for the case and bracelet. Some use gold plating. The plating can wear off. Sapphire crystal is common on higher-end replicas. Mineral glass is common on lower-end replicas. The bracelet clasp should have a double push-button release. Engraving on the clasp should be deep and clear.
Price range
Prices for a replica Ballon Bleu 33680 range from $80 to $400. Lower prices buy a quartz movement and mineral glass. Higher prices buy an automatic movement, sapphire crystal, and better finishing. No replica matches the original in materials or construction.
How to identify a low-quality replica
- Check the crown. A plastic cabochon or a flat blue dot is a sign of low quality.
- Look at the dial print. Blurry or uneven Roman numerals mean low quality.
- Weigh the watch. A light watch often means hollow links or thin steel.
- Test the movement. A quartz movement ticks once per second. An automatic movement sweeps.
- Inspect the case back. Poor engraving or wrong reference numbers mean low quality.
Replica Ballon Bleu 33680 watches are not authorized by Cartier. Cartier does not sell or endorse replicas. The number 33680 has no official status. Use the checks above to compare listings.