VS Factory Explained: The Rise, Fall, and Revival of a Replica Watches Giant
Over the past few years, the replica watches market has seen intense competition among manufacturers like Clean, ZF, APS, and 3K. But among them, VS Factory stands out as one of the most historically significant and technically advanced players. From revolutionizing the Panerai replica sector to producing the finest Omega and Rolex clones, VS Factory’s journey is a story of innovation, disruption, and resilience. In this article, we dive deep into the origin, evolution, product highlights, and current market standing of VS Factory.
I. Why Talk About VS Factory?
Many readers who followed our previous introductions to Clean, APS, ZF, OM, and 3K Factory have expressed a strong interest in learning more about VS Factory. Despite being somewhat less discussed in recent years due to operational disruptions, VS Factory is historically more influential than most of its competitors. With a reputation for producing high-quality Panerai, Omega, and now Rolex replicas, VS remains a legendary name in the replica industry. This article sets out to explore what makes VS Factory so special.
II. Goodbye Noob: The End of an Era
Before we dive into the history of VS, it’s essential to clarify one common question from readers: Where can I buy Noob Factory watches? The answer is straightforward—Noob Factory has permanently shut down. Once a dominant force in the replica Rolex market, Noob ceased operations during the major factory raids in China and will not return. This closure left a significant gap in the market, one that VS Factory partially stepped in to fill.
III. The Early Days: From KW and V6 to VS
The story of VS Factory begins long before the brand name “VS” appeared. Back in the early 2010s, a group of watchmakers visited the Zhanxi Watch Market in Guangzhou and noticed the popularity of Noob’s replica Panerai PAM 111 and PAM 005. Inspired by this success, they decided to produce even better Panerai replicas—particularly automatic models, which were lacking at the time.
Initially, these watches were released under the brand KW, and later also under V6 for models like the Cartier Ballon Bleu. These early replicas featured the Shanghai 7750 movement (some argue it was a Dandong variant) with chronograph features removed. These movements were customized with decorative bridges to closely mimic the aesthetics of Panerai’s in-house P.9000 movement.
This innovation was revolutionary. The PAM 441 and other Panerai models from KW quickly became best-sellers, outpacing Noob’s offerings in both realism and quality.
IV. The Birth of the VS Brand (2017)
In 2016, KW released the first-generation super clone P.9000 movement. While impressive, it lacked the independent hour-hand adjustment found in genuine Panerai models. However, in 2017, the improved second-generation movement was introduced with full functionality, including the independently adjustable hour hand.
This milestone marked the official birth of the VS Factory brand. The first batch of VS-branded watches, including the updated PAM 441 and PAM 661, became instant hits among Panerai enthusiasts worldwide. The super clone P.9000 movement became the gold standard in the replica industry.
At the same time, their Cartier Ballon Bleu models under the V6 label continued to perform well, cementing VS’s growing reputation as a technical pioneer and commercial powerhouse.
V. Breaking Into the Omega Replica Market
Following its success with Panerai, VS Factory turned its attention to the Omega Seamaster line. Their first Omega replica was the Seamaster Diver 300m, released with an Asian clone 2824 movement visually modified to resemble Omega’s 8800 calibre.
These watches impressed immediately, not only because of their aesthetic accuracy but also due to the quality of assembly. By this time, VS had already adopted automated production and assembly lines, setting them apart from other replica manufacturers that still relied on manual work.
Shortly afterward, VS released improved Omega replicas featuring super clone 8500 and 8900 movements. These watches, including the Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m and Planet Ocean 600m, solidified VS’s dominance in the Omega replica segment. To this day, their Omega clones remain unmatched in movement fidelity and case finishing.
VI. Movement Innovation: The Heart of VS
VS Factory has always prioritized movement innovation. In 2020, they made headlines again with two critical developments:
- Dandong 3135 – Used in 40mm Submariner models
- Dandong 3235 – Featured in 41mm Submariner and Datejust replicas
These movements delivered robust performance and improved reliability, outperforming the first-generation Shanghai 3135 used by other brands. So superior were the Dandong versions that even Clean Factory eventually adopted them, abandoning Shanghai’s alternative.
Today, all VS Rolex models use these Dandong movements, making them highly sought after by collectors and replica enthusiasts who prioritize both accuracy and long-term durability.
VII. The 2021 Crackdown and Market Shift
In mid-2021, a series of government crackdowns on replica manufacturers led to the temporary closure of many leading factories, including VS. This disruption allowed Clean Factory to rise quickly in market share, especially in the replica Rolex sector.
During this period, Clean capitalized on faster delivery times and increased visibility, becoming the go-to for Submariner and Daytona replicas. Meanwhile, VS remained offline and silent, with buyers speculating about a permanent shutdown.
But in 2022, VS Factory made a strong comeback. Although their delivery times are slower and production capacity remains limited compared to before, their product quality has remained consistently high.
Today, VS continues to produce best-in-class replicas of Panerai, Omega, and Rolex watches—albeit in smaller quantities. Their reputation for technical excellence and historically authentic movement cloning ensures they remain a favorite among experienced collectors.
VIII. VS Factory vs Clean vs ZF: Market Comparison
| Brand | Strengths | Key Models | Movement Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| VS Factory | Movement cloning, Omega/Panerai expertise | PAM 441, Seamaster 300m, Submariner 126610LN | Super Clone P.9000, 8500, 3135, 3235 |
| Clean Factory | Finishing, fast delivery, Rolex focus | Daytona 116500LN, Submariner 41mm | Dandong 4130, 3135 |
| ZF Factory | Dial craftsmanship, consistent quality | Vacheron 4500V, Omega Aqua Terra | Custom Asia Movements |
IX. Final Thoughts: What Lies Ahead for VS Factory?
VS Factory remains one of the most respected names in the replica watches community. From pioneering clone movements like the P.9000 and 8500 to entering the Rolex market with formidable offerings, VS has continually pushed the boundaries of what a replica factory can achieve.
Though operational setbacks have affected their market presence and production volume, their technical legacy remains strong. With steady improvements in production and the enduring trust of watch enthusiasts, VS may yet reclaim its throne as the king of super clone replicas.
🔗 Internal Links You Might Like:
📸 Suggested Images:
- Side-by-side comparison of genuine vs. VS Factory Panerai PAM 441
- Close-up of VS Clone P.9000 movement
- Assembly line at a replica watch factory (stock image)
- VS Factory Seamaster 300m underwater wrist shot