The phrase 'often imitated but never equalled' is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone or something that is so extraordinary, they cannot be compared to or surpassed by any other person or thing. For example, you might say, "Shakespeare is often imitated but never equalled, making him the greatest playwright of all time.".
Often imitated but never equaled, this was a big triumph made on a small budget.
She was an original: the ultimate bosomy, blonde sex symbol whose style silken walk, suggestive less of sex than of the meshing of superbly machined parts—was often imitated, but never equaled.
It has always seemed to me that many two- and three-Michelin-star restaurants have imitated but never equaled the decor of Les Crayeres -- its succession of handsome wood-paneled dining rooms, with heavy tablecloths and sumptuous velvet drapes; its clublike bar; and, particularly, its sun-drenched conservatories that look onto the cedar-filled park.
Often imitated but never duplicated".
Her yuk sung and lemon chicken were true Cantonese comfort foods, often imitated but never rivaled.
Such is the ingeniousness of its simple format - often imitated but never bettered - that it is one of radio's most illustrious institutions and hosting it one of the most coveted jobs in British broadcasting.
"White Castle's model has been often imitated but never duplicated — an impressive feat in the hyper-competitive fast-food sector," said Impossible Foods' founder and chief executive Patrick Brown in a statement.
When I feel like I can't trust my brain 100%, Ludwig really comes in handy. It makes me translate and proofread faster and my output more reliable.
Claudia Letizia
Head Translator and Proofreader @ organictranslations.eu