A replica 1735 Grande Complication is a tribute watch that copies the look of the Patek Philippe reference 1735, the platinum grand complication released in 1989 for the brand's 150th anniversary. A good replica matches the case profile, the dial layout, and the placement of the calendar subdials. It does not carry the original's range of functions or its hand-finished movement, so buy it as a style piece rather than a mechanical twin.
The genuine 1735 belongs to a small group of watches that collectors call grand complications. Patek produced it in low numbers, and examples that reach auction sit far outside most budgets. That gap in price is the reason replica versions exist.
What Makes the Reference 1735 a Grand Complication?
A grand complication is a watch that combines several high-level functions in one movement. The reference 1735 packs a perpetual calendar, a chronograph, a minute repeater, and a moon phase display into a single platinum case.
- Perpetual calendar that tracks date, day, month, and leap year
- Chronograph with a central seconds hand
- Minute repeater that chimes the time on demand
- Moon phase display
- Platinum case with a hand-finished movement
Each of those functions adds parts and hours of hand work. A minute repeater alone can take a watchmaker weeks to assemble and tune. That is why the real watch costs what it does, and why a replica can only hint at it.
Which Functions Work on a Replica 1735 Grande Complication?
Most replica 1735 Grande Complication watches show a busy dial but run a fraction of the functions. On the better models, time, date, and moon phase work. A true minute repeater or a working split-seconds chronograph is rare at replica prices, and any seller who promises one for a low figure is overselling.
- Time and date: standard on most replicas, often with a quick-set crown position
- Moon phase: works on mid-range models and above, geared to a 29.5-day cycle
- Day, month, leap year: printed on the dial, with some models advancing them by pusher
- Chronograph: starts, stops, and resets on many replicas, but it does not split seconds
- Minute repeater: cosmetic on almost every replica, since the chime needs a real mechanism
How Do You Judge a Replica 1735 Grande Complication Before Buying?
Photos hide more than they show. Ask for video, close-ups of the caseback, and a short clip of the dial in motion. Four checks cover most of the risk.
Case Shape and Finish
The reference 1735 uses a round platinum case with a clean bezel and straight lugs. Check that the replica keeps those proportions. Look for sharp edges, even brushing, and a crown that sits flush with the case band. A wobbly crown or a soft bezel edge points to a cheap build.
Dial and Subdials
Subdial spacing is the fastest tell. On a well-made replica, the calendar windows line up with the hands and the printing stays crisp under a loupe. Blurry text, crooked markers, and depth that looks painted on are signs of a rushed dial.
Movement and Pushers
Ask which movement sits inside and how the calendar is set. A quick-set pusher is a good sign at this price point. If the seller cannot name the movement or explain the setting sequence, walk away.
Weight and Feel
Platinum feels dense, and replicas in steel or plated brass will not match it. That is normal and not a flaw. What matters is the balance on the wrist and whether the strap uses real stitching and a signed buckle.
What Should a Replica 1735 Grande Complication Cost?
Price tracks the movement and the finishing, not the number of markers on the dial. Entry models with a basic automatic and cosmetic complications sit at the low end. Mid-range pieces add a working moon phase, a sapphire crystal, and a better case finish. The top tier adds a decorated automatic, a closer dial, and a bracelet with solid links.
Watch out for a low price attached to big claims. A working repeater at a bargain price does not exist, so the advertised feature is print on the dial and nothing more.
How Do You Care for a Complication-Style Replica?
- Keep it away from water unless the listing states a real depth rating
- Set the calendar with the pushers instead of forcing the crown
- Wind a manual movement at the same hour each day
- Store it in a dry box or case to slow plating wear
- Have a local watchmaker check the movement every two to three years
FAQ
Is a replica 1735 Grande Complication waterproof?
Treat it as splash resistant at best. Gaskets on replica cases are not tested to a standard, and a genuine repeater needs openings in the case that water can reach.
Will the perpetual calendar be correct?
On most replicas the calendar is annual or manual, not perpetual. You will need to adjust it at the end of short months and again in February.
Can a watchmaker service a replica 1735?
Many can, if the movement is a common automatic caliber. Ask before you buy. Parts for uncommon replica movements can take weeks to source.
Does a replica hold value?
No. Replicas are wearer watches. Buy one because you like the look on your wrist, not as an investment.
Bottom Line
A replica 1735 Grande Complication gives you the silhouette of one of watchmaking's famous references at a fraction of the cost. Choose a model with a clean dial, a named movement, and honest function claims. Then wear it as what it is: a well-built tribute, not the real thing.