A replica Ballon Bleu 33708 is a copy of the Cartier Ballon Bleu de Cartier automatic, the steel round-case watch whose caseback carries the 33708 reference stamp. The best copies sell for roughly $180 to $350 and pair a 40 to 42 mm case with a Miyota 9015 or ETA 2892 clone, a sapphire crystal, and the blue cabochon crown. Budget versions under $100 usually cut corners on the crystal, dial printing, and bracelet finish.
What does the 33708 reference mean?
Cartier stamps case reference numbers on the caseback, and 33708 identifies the steel automatic Ballon Bleu in the larger case size. The number is not a model name, so two watches sold as 33708 can differ in case diameter, dial color, and bracelet style.
Ask the seller to measure the case across the bezel and confirm the dial layout before you order. Photos alone make a 36 mm and a 42 mm Ballon Bleu look nearly identical.
Which specs should a good copy match?
- Case: polished stainless steel, 40 to 42 mm, about 13 mm thick, domed lugs
- Crystal: sapphire with a slight dome and no visible halo at the edge
- Dial: flinqué guilloché texture, printed Roman numerals, blued sword hands, date at 3
- Crown: fluted crown guard set with a synthetic blue spinel cabochon
- Bracelet: steel with brushed outer links and polished center links, butterfly clasp
Which movement does the replica use?
Most mid-tier copies run a 21,600 vph Asian automatic, which sweeps a little slower than the genuine caliber 049. Upper-tier builds use a Miyota 9015 or an ETA 2892 clone at 28,800 vph, and those keep better time and hold a longer power reserve.
Ask whether the movement is decorated and whether the rotor is engraved. A decorated rotor is cosmetic, but it tells you the seller is at least showing the caseback work.
How much should a replica Ballon Bleu 33708 cost?
Under $100 buys mineral glass, softer dial print, and a rattly bracelet. The $150 to $250 range is the sweet spot for sapphire crystal, correct dial texture, and a solid link bracelet. Above $300 you are paying for a Swiss-style movement, tighter crown action, and better case polishing.
QC checklist before shipping
- Confirm the case diameter and lug width with calipers in the photos.
- Check the date window alignment at the 3 o'clock position.
- Look for dust under the crystal and gaps between dial and rehaut.
- Verify the cabochon is centered and glued flush on the crown.
- Ask for a timegrapher reading showing rate and beat error.
How do you care for a replica Ballon Bleu?
Treat it as splash resistant at best, even if the listing claims 3 ATM or 5 ATM. Take it off before swimming, showering, or washing dishes, because gaskets on copies are rarely tested.
Have the movement serviced every three to five years, and keep the watch away from hot cars and strong magnets. Wipe the case with a soft cloth and store it on a cushion so the bracelet does not scratch the caseback.
Is buying a replica legal?
In the United States, selling or importing counterfeit goods is illegal, and customs officers can seize a package. Buying one for personal use carries lower risk, but the shipment itself is not guaranteed. Read the seller's reship and refund policy before paying.