On the watch discussion forum, the area of imitations, copies, replicas is always a hot topic for discussion. It would seem that the situation is clear, but in addition to obvious imitations that try to stick to the originals, including the manufacturer’s logo, there is also a wide area of \u200b\u200bthe “gray zone” that is not regulated by any laws and this is really a place for flaming defense of opinion positions.
I’m strictly against fakes, I think it’s theft. But what about a piece like the Steinhart Ocean 1? The inspiration from the more famous replica Rolex Submariner is obvious. And since I’ve already written something on this topic somewhere, I’ll recycle those few sentences here.
Ideas are copied all the time – for cars, clothes, music, electronics and what do I know… if a product is popular, famous – many other manufacturers will also try to take a penny from it. From another point of view (the consumer), there are many people for whom imitation is the only thing they will be able to afford in life, and I will certainly not be the arbiter who would judge such a decision. If it is not a fake, a forgery – I don’t see a legal problem here. Regarding “inspired” watches, I perceive one more important point – such watches can be made with quality, quality and taste. If someone on the street mistakes them for something they are not… so what? Likewise, someone who wears submariners and, thanks to replicants, has the feeling that everyone else will think they’re wearing a fake – maybe they have such a watch for a somewhat debatable reason.
To summarize, it is important to me that trademark and patent rights are not violated. It is also important that a watch that takes inspiration from somewhere is not just a cheap knock-off, made purely for the reason of “warming your mouth”. Ocean 1 meets the above. Revue Thommen manufactures them for Steinhart, which I think is a sufficient guarantee of quality, there are minor differences in the design, not to mention the materials and movement. And most importantly, these replica watches are sold under the Steinhart brand. Personally, I probably wouldn’t buy them, I’d prefer Submariners of course, but I think there’s nothing wrong with owning them.