Here’s the practical summary.
1. VS3235 vs DD3235
- Both are Dandong 3235 clones; “VS” is the name used on VSF watches.
- What matters is the revision and whether it’s really a Dandong movement. Ask for a movement photo, and compare it with an identification guide.
2. “Free sprung” on a listing
| Label | What it usually means | What it changes for the wearer |
|---|---|---|
| “free sprung effect” / decorative | free-sprung look, conventional regulation reported unclear | nothing; regulation can be awkward |
| true free sprung (e.g. JH3235) | balance without regulator arm, regulated with weights | little day to day; regulation is a watchmaker job |
3. What owners actually report
- Power reserve close to the advertised figure on a healthy VS3235 (one test: ~68 h).
- Good stability reports on DD3235 versus older SH movements.
- Individual faults: hands jumping while winding, date not advancing. Ask to see both in the QC video.
4. QC requests
- Movement photo (maker, revision, serial engraving).
- Timegrapher photo, read the way it’s explained in the timegrapher thread.
- A short video of the date change and of winding.
If you’ve had the caseback off, post a close-up of the movement with the balance and the engraving visible. Side-by-side shots of both clones are the most useful.
Terms like hairspring, balance or regulator are explained in the movements and parts glossary.