Among so many different watches, the simplest two-hander to the most sophisticated chronograph, by way of every style, size and color exclusively: herewith, our annual account of the year’s best replica watches and the brands that have brought them to you. 
Rolex
While would-be rivals might strive to make their products more appealing by adding complications, Rolex continues to express its superiority by making subtle but significant improvements to its already class-leading designs. The new Sea-Dweller, for example, gets a ceramic bezel, a larger 43mm case, its first “cyclops” date magnifier and blue luminescence. The red “Sea-Dweller” print nods to the 1967 original.
Audemars Piguet
When it comes to its men’s fake watches, the replica Audemars Piguet seems to be heading towards “mono-brand” status as it places ever greater emphasis on its legendary Royal Oak. But why not, when it has long been its bestselling cornerstone? A slew of variations on the theme fill this year’s catalogue, including an all-platinum version of the mighty Offshore chronograph. ‘Tis a hefty beast indeed. 
Breitling
The big news from the replica Breitling is that it’s been sold. Following months of speculation that the company was up for grabs, it was bought last April by private equity giant CVC Capital Partner at a cheap price. Acquired by Ernest Schneider in 1979 and in the family’s hands ever since, it has been run for the past 20 years by his son, Theodore, who retains a 20 per cent stake in the firm.
Hublot
Just when you thought the fake Hublot couldn’t get any more avant-garde, the brand has collaborated with Ferrari to create the Techframe Tourbillon Chronograph. Marking the 70th anniversary of the car marque, the watch houses a hand-wound movement in a carbon lattice framework made from high-tech Peek, titanium or Hublot’s “King Gold”. 
IWC
It’s good to see some affordable pieces being added to the Schaffhausen brand’s line-up, including models dedicated to The Little Prince author and aviator Antoine De Saint-Exupery as well as a brown dial version of the 36mm Pilot’s cheap replica Watch Automatic.