APS Factory vs. ZF Factory: A Detailed Comparison of Audemars Piguet Replicas

Introduction
The replica watch market has evolved significantly, with factories like APS and ZF competing to produce the most accurate Audemars Piguet (AP) Royal Oak replicas. Both factories have their strengths, but which one offers the better version? This post will compare APS and ZF Factory’s AP replicas in terms of case construction, movement, dial details, and overall accuracy.

1. Case & Bracelet Quality
APS Factory

• Perfect Dimensions: APS achieves 1:1 case dimensions, such as 41mm diameter and 9.8mm thickness on the Royal Oak 15400, matching the genuine watch precisely.
• Interchangeable Parts: APS cases and bracelets can reportedly swap with genuine AP parts, a rare feature in replicas.
• Superior Finishing: Brushing and polishing are exceptionally close to the original, with refined edges and no sharpness.

ZF Factory

• Excellent but Slightly Thicker: ZF’s Royal Oak 15400 also maintains 9.8mm thickness, but some models (like the 15202) are slightly thicker than gen specs.
• Improved Bracelet: ZF’s bracelet has better articulation than older versions, with smoother links and more refined edges than APS in some cases.

Verdict: APS wins in case accuracy, but ZF has improved significantly in recent versions.

2. Movement Accuracy
APS Factory

• True Clone Movements: APS uses custom 3120 and 4302 movements (not just decorated Miyotas), with correct gear functionality and proper balance wheel positioning.
• Better Rotor Color: APS’s rotor matches the genuine AP gold tone, while early ZF versions had a reddish tint.

ZF Factory

• Miyota 9015-Based (Older Models): Earlier ZF models used modified Miyota 9015 with incorrect 11 o’clock balance wheel position.
• Upgraded to Custom 3120 (Newer Models): ZF now uses a custom 3120 movement with correct 7 o’clock balance wheel, matching APS’s movement.

Verdict: APS still leads with more consistent movement quality, but ZF has closed the gap in newer models.

3. Dial & Printing Details
APS Factory

• Perfect "Tapisserie" Pattern: APS dials have deep, well-defined squares, closely matching the gen.
• Correct Font & Date Wheel: The "Audemars Piguet" text is raised, and the date font is identical to genuine.

ZF Factory

• Improved Dial Texture: ZF’s "Grande Tapisserie" is now more refined, with better depth than before.
• Better Lume & Printing: ZF’s lume application is crisper, and the AUTOMATIC text has better 3D effect.

Verdict: APS has a slight edge in dial texture, but ZF has improved significantly in printing and lume.

4. Price & Value

• APS is More Expensive: Due to superior movement and finishing, APS watches cost $500-$700.
• ZF is Slightly Cheaper: ZF’s price ranges from $400-$600, offering good value for recent upgrades.

Final Conclusion: Which One to Buy?
Choose APS if:

• You want the closest possible replica to a genuine AP.
• You prioritize movement accuracy (true clone vs. older Miyota-based ZF models).
• You’re willing to pay extra for better finishing and case details.

Choose ZF if:

• You want a well-balanced replica with recent upgrades.
• You prefer better lume and dial printing in newer models.
• You’re looking for a slightly more affordable option with good quality.

Overall Winner?

• For 15400/15500 models, APS still leads in movement and case accuracy.
• For 15202 or ceramic models (e.g., 15707), ZF is competitive with better dial and bracelet refinements.

What’s your experience with APS or ZF Factory APs? Share your thoughts below!