⚡ Quick Verdict (TL;DR)
If you don’t have time to read the full 2,000-word review:
The APS Factory 15500 replica (Latest V3 Batch) is currently the market leader. It features a massive dial upgrade and the exclusive Integrated 4302 movement.
- The Dial: New V3 dial has the correct sunburst CD pattern and dynamic color shift.
- The Movement: Instant date change (unlike the slow 15400) and upgraded rotor color.
- The Verdict: Better than ZF Factory due to the movement architecture.
Score: 9.7/10. The King of Steel.
Watch Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Reference | Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500ST |
| Factory | APS Factory (APS) – V3/V4 Version |
| Case Size | 41mm Diameter x 10.4mm Thickness |
| Case Material | 316L Stainless Steel |
| Dial | Blue/Black/White/Grey “Grande Tapisserie” |
| Movement | APS Custom 4302 Automatic (Integrated) |
| Functions | Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Instant Date |
| Crystal | Sapphire with AR Coating |
| Strap | Steel Bracelet or Rubber Strap |
1. Introduction: The AP 15500 Replica Revolution
The Audemars Piguet 15500 is the holy grail of steel sports watches. For collectors seeking the best APS Factory 15500 replica, the new V3 update is a game-changer. It replaces the legendary 15400 with a cleaner dial and a new 4302 movement.
In the world of replicas, APS Factory made history by being the first to clone the 4302 Integrated Movement. Before this, factories like ZF used a modified 9015 movement which was noisy and had the wrong gear train layout for this AP 15500 replica.
Now, with the V3 Dial Upgrade (sometimes marketed as V4), APS claims to have perfected the visual side too. Is this Audemars Piguet 15500 replica truly better than ZF? Let’s find out.
While the 15500 is a classic dress sports watch, if you are looking for something more robust for swimming, check out our review of the APS Factory AP Diver 15710.
Table of Contents
2. The V3 Dial: CD Pattern Perfection
The dial is the most important upgrade on this AP 15500 replica.
( Macro shot of sunburst CD pattern on AP 15500 replica dial)
The “Tapisserie” Texture
- Old Version: The squares looked flat or “plastic-like.”
- V3 Upgrade: APS has added a fine CD Pattern (Sunburst concentric circles) on top of the “Grande Tapisserie” squares.
- Effect: When light hits the dial, it reflects in a radial pattern, creating a “Sunburst” effect. This is exactly how the genuine AP dial behaves. It looks metallic and expensive, not flat.
Color Analysis: Blue vs. Grey
- Blue Dial: The most popular. APS nailed the “Chameleon” effect. In the sun, it’s electric blue. Indoors, it’s navy. It doesn’t look purple (a common flaw).
- Grey Dial: A sleeper hit. The rhodium-grey tone is spot on, giving it a monochromatic, industrial look.
3. The Movement: Integrated 4302
This is why you buy APS Factory over any other factory.
( Exhibition caseback showing APS 4302 integrated movement on Royal Oak replica)
Instant Date Change
- 15400 (Cal. 3120): Has a “Slow” date change. It takes 30-60 mins to roll over.
- 15500 (Cal. 4302): Has an “Instant” (Snap) date change.
- APS Execution: The APS clone movement replicates this “Snap” perfectly. At midnight (approx. 12:00 ± 5 mins), the date jumps instantly. This is a huge mechanical improvement and a key identifier of the 4302 architecture in this AP 15500 clone.
Rotor Upgrade (V4 Detail)
- The Color: Older rotors looked too yellow (brass-like). The new batch has a Rose Gold tone that matches the 22K solid gold rotor of the genuine watch much better.
- Noise: The ball bearings have been lubricated better, reducing the “helicopter” noise on this AP clone.
4. The Case: Sharp & Edgy
The Royal Oak design is all about sharp angles. APS captures this perfectly on their 15500 replica.
(Side profile of the polished bevels on APS Royal Oak 15500)
The “Sharp” Feel
Some people complain that AP replicas feel “sharp” or “scratchy” on the wrist.
- The Reality: Genuine APs are also sharp! The design language is geometric.
- APS Finishing: The brushing is vertical and deep. The polished chamfers (bevels) on the bezel and lugs are mirror-like. It catches the light like a diamond.
Thickness
- Genuine: 10.4mm.
- APS:10.4mm.
- Result: It wears thin and elegant. It is not bulky like older versions.
5. On-Wrist Experience: The “Royal Oak” Feel
How does this APS Factory 15500 feel to wear?
(Wrist shot of APS AP 15500 replica showing light reflection)
Wrist Size Guide
- Size: 41mm. However, due to the integrated lugs, it wears larger than a Rolex 41mm.
- Advice: We recommend this model for wrists 17cm (6.7 inches) and larger. If you have a smaller wrist, the 15450 (37mm) might be a better fit.
Light Play
The combination of brushed surfaces and polished edges creates a “disco ball” effect. Under sunlight, the bracelet sparkles intensely. It is a watch that gets noticed.
6. Strap Options: Steel vs. Rubber
APS now offers a Rubber Strap option for the 15500.
(Comparison of rubber strap and steel bracelet for Audemars Piguet replica)
The Steel Bracelet
- Flexibility: The links articulate well.
- Screw Fix: APS has started using Loctite on bracelet screws in the factory, solving the old issue of screws falling out. (We still recommend checking them periodically).
The Rubber Strap
- Comfort: If you find the steel bracelet too heavy or sharp, the rubber strap is a game-changer. It makes the Audemars Piguet 15500 replica feel sporty and light.
- End Links: The conversion links fit the case tightly with no gaps.
If you love rubber straps but want a Rolex, the Clean Factory Daytona on Oysterflex offers a similar sporty vibe.
7. Comparison: APS vs. ZF Factory
ZF Factory is the main rival. Which one is better?
| Feature | APS Factory (V3) | ZF Factory (V3) |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | Integrated 4302 (Best) | Modified 9015 |
| Dial Texture | CD Pattern (Sunburst) | Matte |
| Date Change | Instant (Correct) | Instant |
| Case Finish | Excellent | Excellent |
| Price | Similar | Similar |
Verdict:
- APS Factory wins on Movement and Dial Texture. The integrated movement looks better through the caseback and the dial reflects light better on this AP 15500 replica.
- ZF Factory is still good, but APS has edged ahead with the V3 update.
Although APS wins here, ZF Factory is still the king of other brands. For example, their IWC Portugieser 7-Day Replica is legendary.
8. Pros & Cons
✅ The Pros
- Best Movement: The clone 4302 is stable and beautiful.
- Best Dial: The sunburst tapisserie is stunning on this AP clone.
- Thickness: 10.4mm is perfect.
- Versatility: Option for rubber strap.
❌ The Cons
- Sharp Edges: Can feel sharp on the wrist (true to gen).
- Rotor Noise: The ball-bearing rotor can be heard in a quiet room.
9. Final Verdict – Is the APS 15500 V3 Worth It?
Yes. It is the definitive Royal Oak.
If you are in the market for a high-end AP 15500 replica, the APS V3 is the definitive choice. Its integrated movement makes it superior to any other Audemars Piguet 15500 replica available today.
If you want a steel sports watch that rivals the genuine for a fraction of the price, this is the best option available.
Note for Buyers: Due to high demand, batch availability may vary between dealers. Always confirm you are getting the latest V3/V4 version before purchase.
FAQ: Common Buyer Questions
Q1: Is it waterproof?
A: Rated for 3ATM. Safe for hand washing. Do NOT swim with this AP replica.
Q2: Does the dial have a sunburst effect?
A: Yes! The V3 update added the correct CD pattern sunburst to the blue, black, and grey dials.
Q3: Can I swap the strap?
A: Yes. You can swap between steel and rubber, but it requires a screwdriver (not a quick release like the new 15510).
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