ZF Factory’s New Tudor Black Bay vs. Genuine Tudor: Detailed Comparison Review

Introduction
The Tudor Black Bay series has long been a favorite among watch enthusiasts for its vintage-inspired design and robust build quality. Recently, ZF Factory released its latest replica of the Tudor Black Bay, claiming significant improvements in accuracy. In this review, we’ll compare the ZF replica with the genuine Tudor Black Bay, analyzing key details to determine how close it gets to the real deal.

1. Case & Dimensions​

Genuine Tudor:

• Made of 316L stainless steel (or 904L in newer models).
• Case finishing includes a mix of polished and brushed surfaces.
• Case thickness and lug curvature are precisely engineered for comfort.

ZF Replica:

• Uses 316L stainless steel, matching the genuine watch.
• The case shape and brushing are very close, but slight differences in lug curvature may be noticeable under close inspection.
• Case thickness is nearly identical, making it difficult to distinguish on the wrist.

Verdict: 9/10 – ZF does an excellent job replicating the case, with only minor deviations in fine details.

2. Dial & Hands​

Genuine Tudor:

• Matte black (or blue) dial with crisp printing.
• Lume is Super-LumiNova, offering strong, even glow.
• Snowflake hands are perfectly shaped with sharp edges.

ZF Replica:

• Dial color and texture are very close, but some replicas may have slightly less refined printing.
• Lume is bright but may fade faster than genuine Super-LumiNova.
• Snowflake hands are well-replicated, but the edges might not be as sharp under magnification.

Verdict: 8.5/10 – A strong effort, but slight imperfections in printing and lume quality give it away under scrutiny.

3. Bezel​

Genuine Tudor:

• Aluminum or ceramic bezel (depending on model) with precise, clicky rotation.
• Bezel markings are deeply engraved and perfectly aligned.

ZF Replica:

• Bezel material is close but may feel slightly lighter or less refined.
• Action is smooth but may lack the same level of crispness as the genuine bezel.
• Markings are well-done, but some small inconsistencies in depth or alignment may exist.

Verdict: 8/10 – Good, but bezel action and engraving details could be improved.

4. Movement​

Genuine Tudor:

• Uses in-house MT5602 movement (COSC-certified) with a 70-hour power reserve.
• Smooth seconds hand sweep and high accuracy.

ZF Replica:

• Typically uses an Asian clone movement (e.g., A2824 or modified ZF movement).
• Decent accuracy but lacks the long power reserve and refinement of the genuine movement.
• The rotor may be noisier than the genuine Tudor’s.

Verdict: 7.5/10 – The biggest tell is the movement; while functional, it doesn’t match Tudor’s in-house caliber.

5. Bracelet & Clasp​

Genuine Tudor:

• Solid, well-finished bracelet with a smooth glide-lock clasp.
• Brushing and polishing are flawless.

ZF Replica:

• Bracelet quality is good but may feel slightly less substantial.
• Clasp mechanism works well but may not be as refined in operation.
• Some sharp edges may be present on the replica.

Verdict: 8/10 – Very close, but small details in finishing and clasp action reveal it’s a rep.

Final Thoughts​

ZF Factory’s new Tudor Black Bay is one of the best replicas available, with excellent case construction, dial accuracy, and overall appearance. However, the movement and minor finishing details still separate it from the genuine watch. For the price, it’s an impressive alternative, but purists will spot the differences upon close inspection.

Overall Rating: 8.5/10 – A high-quality rep that gets most details right but isn’t 100% perfect.

Would you buy the ZF replica or save up for the genuine Tudor? Share your thoughts below!