If you have been following the rep scene closely over the last couple of years, you’ve probably noticed a massive shift from VS Factory. They used to be the absolute kings of Omega Seamasters and Panerai Luminors. While those are still in production, VSF has clearly moved their main firepower over to Rolex. After taking over the Submariner and Datejust markets, they just dropped their take on the rose gold Rolex Yacht-Master 116655.
The Hands-On Take: VSF tackling the older 116655 instead of the newer 126655 might surprise some, but it makes total sense. They used a bulletproof clone 3135 movement they’ve already perfected, nailed the silky bezel action, and delivered a rose gold aesthetic that actually sits right on the wrist without looking cheap.
Why Build the Discontinued 116655 Instead of the 126655
First, let’s clear up the reference confusion. The genuine 116655 is the older rose gold Yacht-Master, which Rolex eventually replaced with the 126655. Clean Factory already locked down the 126655 using a 3235 movement clone. So why did VSF choose the older 116655?
It comes down to movement maturity. VSF has spent years dialing in their clone 3135 architecture through their Submariner line, making it one of the most reliable engines in the market today. Starting with the 116655 lets them roll out a stable watch immediately. That said, everyone in watch forums knows VSF’s custom 3235 clone is top-tier. Releasing this 116655 is almost certainly a stepping stone before they launch their own 126655 to challenge Clean directly.
Case Finishing, Dimensions, and That Matte Ceramic Bezel
Sizing comes in at a true-to-gen 40mm diameter with a thickness right around 12.5mm. VSF builds the core case out of 904L stainless steel, then applies a rose gold PVD coating. Let’s be real here: like any gold-plated watch in this category, the plating is designed primarily for visual accuracy rather than decades of daily abuse, so you’ll want to treat it with a bit of care. That said, the hue itself hits a warm Everose tone rather than that overly bright yellow color seen on lower-grade budget pieces.
Where this piece really shines is the bidirectional rotation bezel. The matte black ceramic insert features raised, polished numerals that catch light nicely. Turning the bezel gives you 120 clicks of smooth, slightly dampened resistance. It avoids the harsh, tinny snap found on budget builds and feels remarkably close to genuine bezel tension. Turn the watch over, and you’ll find tiny micro-engraved hallmarks under each lug base, showing great attention to detail.
The Clone 3135 Engine Underneath
Pop open the solid caseback and you have VSF’s clone 3135 automatic movement. Honesty matters here: across top factories like VSF, Clean, VR, or GM, the gap in 3135 quality has closed significantly over recent years. Modern 3135 clones from major makers all offer solid daily accuracy, clean keyless work operation, and reliable power delivery. You aren’t buying this watch solely because its 3135 is wildly better than Clean’s—you’re buying it because VSF’s overall casing and dial package is so well-rounded.
One quick logistical note for buyers: because VSF shifted so many factory resources over to Rolex production, their Omega and Panerai models now suffer from longer wait times and smaller batch releases. However, the upside is that Rolex stock—including this Yacht-Master—moves through supply channels much more predictably.
Strap Integration, Clasp Precision, and Lume
The flexible rubber strap fits tight against the lug ends with virtually no gap or play. The matching rose gold Oysterlock clasp shuts with a crisp mechanical snap, and the Glidelock mechanism inside adjusts smoothly without sticking. On the dial side, hands and applied indices feature a clean Chromalight blue lume application that charges up quickly under ambient light and glows evenly across the entire face.
| Key Specification | VSF 116655 Details |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter & Thickness | 40mm x 12.5mm |
| Case Material | 904L Stainless Steel with Rose Gold PVD Plating |
| Movement Calibre | Custom Clone 3135 Automatic Movement |
| Bezel Action | 120-Click Bidirectional Matte Black Ceramic |
| Strap & Clasp | Rubber Oysterflex-style with Rose Gold Glidelock Clasp |
