I agree. Focal length is always going to play a massive role and strong, single-point lighting can be used to simulate the appearance of gloss on surfaces that are satin at best. And we know that reflective surfaces can help to enhance the depth of both color and sculpt, which is why the dull environment for the photo on the right makes the entire thing look ugly.
Some screenshots from Leo's videos for those who can't open them:
Either there's still some color grading happening here or his studio lights are extremely cool by nature, but it's a more neutral look than the photos. No crazy contrast settings or texture enhancements.
Fingers crossed for the collector who took all those City Hunter shots to buy this one as well. He'd provide clean photos in a completely normal room. Until then, this may be the closest we've gotten: