Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 by APSF factory
The APSF Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 watch is a popular choice in the reptime market, celebrated for its close resemblance and quality compared to the genuine model. The latest version features the 4302 movement, identical to that of the authentic piece.
A review on the RWI forum, commented on by Legend, offers detailed insights into their movement. I will provide a link to his thread at the end of this review. His remarks include:
- The date font is 2mm taller.
- The movement assembly is of high quality.
- The individual parts appear slightly rough.
- The date change mechanism is similar between the APSF and genuine models.
- The movement requires an overhaul and regulation for optimal performance.
Flaw 1
Let’s examine the dial’s front-facing aspect.
Point 1: The screws on the bezel differ slightly from the genuine model, but this is a minor issue to fix.
Point 2: The color of the hour and minute hands on both watches varies; APSF’s color is dull and reflects less light, while the genuine model’s color is closer to off-white and more reflective.
Point 3: The dial reflectiveness differs. From certain angles, the genuine model appears to shine brighter than the APSF dial.
Flaw 2
Turning our attention to the watch’s side profile and examining the crown, there is a noticeable difference in the AP engraving font size compared to the authentic models. The font on the genuine is slightly smaller, affecting the positioning on both. Moreover, the overall metal finish is different; APSF models have sharper edges, whereas the genuine ones are beveled, creating a smoother surface appearance.
Flaw 3
Comparing the AP engraving on the clasps of both watches, the metal finish is notably distinct. The APSF’s AP letters are engraved more shallowly, and the font appears slightly thinner than the genuine’s. The corners on the genuine are beveled, in contrast to the APSF’s.
Flaw 4
Focusing on the inner watch clasp, the Audemars Piguet metal finishes differ in their etching depth. The authentic model’s engraving doesn’t protrude as much as APSF’s, sharing the same flaw in metal finishes.
Conclusion
Despite its flaws, the APSF Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500 is considered one of the top-tier replicas, vastly surpassing inferior models in resemblance to the genuine. The solid APSF 4302 movement is a highlight, though it does require servicing every few months—a necessity shared even by genuine watches. Interestingly, APSF’s inner parts are interchangeable with those of the genuine, enhancing its appeal. Given its formal aesthetic, I recommend wearing it for special occasions only. It’s a splendid addition to any collection! As always, peace out and stay vibey.