Like the title says I’m comparing Roman’s first Graflex replica to a couple real Graflex’s that I own.
DISCLAIMER: This comp is against the first version of Roman’s Graflex Replica that came out in 2017
There are a few small differences, some are done on purpose as tells so that it can be identified as a replica, but they are so subtile that you really have to look to spot them. The stamp on the bottom is one, it says “TRADEMARK REG R.E. PAT. OFF.” instead of “TRADEMARK REG U.S. PAT. OFF.”.
On the clamp the text and lines appear to be etched into the metal by a different means, on the real Graflex the recesses are smooth, on the replica the recesses have a texture.
The bunny ears are slightly different, in that they have a small flat area instead of rounded and the metal seems softer. the bunny ears having those differences was an issue for some and I believe that it has been address in a revision, but for me it was a non issue because the plan for this replica Graflex was to make it into a Vader ROTJ Stunt lightsaber which has the bunny ear removed.
There is a slight difference in the little switch on the side of the flash. Mostly it’s a difference in how shiny the metal is, the dimple looks a bit smaller on the replica too.
The differences are very minor and act as tells protect those of us in this hobby from paying the prices a real Graflex commands for a replica.
You can get these replicas at Romanprops.com
With the prices of Graflex moving higher and higher I’m glad there is a quality replica available. I also don’t feel so bad drilling holes in a replica. Awesome work Roman.
Check out me unboxing 4 real Hales grenades