In fact, it is easy to identify the replica Omega Seamaster with gray dial from the authentic one. From a small part of the movement, you will easily distinguish the imitation. It is the silicone balance wheel of the calibre 8500.
The copy Omega with steel case in the market always been equipped with calibre Miyota8215 or 9015 which have been added with splint to imitate the appearance of calibre 8500. However, no matter how the appearance is similar, the silicon rotor couldn’t be imitated. Even if it can be imitated, the factories will not do that due to the high cost.
Silicon material, black, fine-tuned and Omega LOGO and Si14 marks printed on the balance wheel, all of which are unique to the movements of Omega. Regardless of the middle and low end, the balance is made of alloy. Most of them are golden. In addition, the size is different too. Another obvious difference is that the balance wheel of calibre 8500 is at 6 o’clock position while others are at 5 o’clock position.