Why is the VS Factory PAM00616 replica watch the most popular?

For watch enthusiasts who admire Panerai's bold designs but find the genuine articles prohibitively expensive, the VS Factory replica of the Panerai Submersible PAM00616 presents an intriguing alternative. As one of the most talked-about replica watches in recent years, this carbon fiber timepiece has garnered significant attention for its remarkable similarity to the original. In this comprehensive review, we'll examine every aspect of the VS Factory PAM00616, from its innovative materials to its mechanical performance, helping you determine whether this replica lives up to the hype.

Introduction to the VS Factory PAM00616 Replica​

The Panerai Submersible PAM00616 made waves when it was first introduced at the 2015 Geneva International Watch Fair as Panerai's inaugural carbon fiber composite timepiece. Its appearance in "The Fast and the Furious 8" on Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's wrist further cemented its status as a modern icon of rugged luxury. VS Factory's replica of this watch has become legendary in the replica community for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in terms of material replication and mechanical accuracy.
VS Factory (also known as VSF) emerged in late 2016 as a subsidiary of XF Factory (formerly KW Factory) and quickly established itself as a leader in high-quality Panerai replicas. Their breakthrough came with the development of in-house P.9000 and P.9001 movements that accurately mimicked the genuine Panerai calibers, solving the longstanding "tell" of incorrect balance wheel positioning that plagued earlier replicas.
The PAM00616 represents one of VS Factory's most ambitious projects, requiring them to master carbon fiber composite manufacturing—a material previously unused in the replica watch industry. The result is a timepiece that captures not just the look but the very essence of Panerai's innovative spirit.

Exterior Design and Materials​

Carbon Fiber Composite Case​

The most striking feature of the PAM00616 is its 47mm case crafted from Carbotech, Panerai's proprietary carbon fiber composite material. VS Factory has gone to extraordinary lengths to replicate this innovative material, which combines carbon fiber with PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) polymer under specific temperature and high-pressure conditions.
Unlike simple carbon fiber layups used in some replicas, VS Factory's version involves:

• Sourcing specialized carbon fiber blanks with the correct grain pattern
• Precision CNC machining (using €30,000 German DMG five-axis machines)
• Meticulous slow-speed processing (approximately 80 minutes per case)
• Frequent tool changes (every 10-15 cases due to carbon fiber's abrasiveness)

The result is a case that exhibits the same unique, non-repeating carbon fiber patterns as the genuine article, with none of the roughness or micro-chipping seen in inferior replicas. Despite its substantial 47mm diameter, the carbon fiber construction makes the watch surprisingly lightweight at just 96 grams (including strap).

Bezel and Crown Protection System​

The unidirectional rotating bezel (counter-clockwise for dive timing) features:

• Precisely machined notches for secure grip
• Luminous pearl at 12 o'clock (recessed rather than protruding)
• Clear, deeply engraved minute markers

Panerai's signature crown protection system has been faithfully reproduced with:

• Carbon fiber lever that matches the case material
• Smooth operation with proper resistance
• Correctly proportioned locking mechanism

Dial and Hands​

The matte black dial showcases:

• Embedded luminous Arabic numerals and indexes
• Blue accents on small seconds hand and some markers
• Super-LumiNova coating that glows green (hour/minute hands and 12 o'clock marker) and blue (other hour markers) in low light

Date window at 3 o'clock and small seconds at 9 o'clock maintain perfect symmetry, while the sandwich construction of the dial ensures depth and legibility.

Crystal and Water Resistance​

VS Factory equips the PAM00616 with:

• Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
• "Fisheye" distortion effect identical to genuine
• 300m water resistance rating (though practical testing suggests ~100m is more realistic)

The sealed caseback, crafted from composite material with laser-etched Panerai branding, contributes to the water resistance while maintaining the watch's technical aesthetic.

Movement and Technical Specifications​

VS Factory P.9000 Clone Movement​

The heart of this replica is VS Factory's in-house developed P.9000 clone movement, representing a significant advancement over previous replica movements that used modified ETA or Asian clones with decorative plates.
Key features of the movement:

• Correct balance wheel position at 7 o'clock (matches genuine)
• Twin barrel design for approximately 72-hour power reserve
• 28,800 vph frequency (4Hz)
• Incabloc shock protection system
• Functional quick-set hour hand (jumps in one-hour increments)
• Non-quickset date (changes gradually around midnight)

Performance metrics from user reports:

• Average daily accuracy: ±10 seconds/day
• Power reserve: 60-65 hours (slightly less than claimed)
• Reliability: Significant improvement over previous replica movements with very low incidence of stoppage or failure

Comparison to Genuine P.9000​

While visually nearly identical under casual inspection, side-by-side comparison reveals:

• Finishing on bridges isn't quite as refined
• Engraving depth and font weight slightly different
• Rotor noise may be marginally louder
• Power reserve typically 10-15% shorter

However, these differences are only apparent upon close inspection with specialized tools or knowledge—the movement represents a quantum leap over previous replica attempts.

Strap and Wearability​

Rubber Strap​

The included black rubber strap features:

• Textured surface for grip and visual interest
• Blue "OP" (Officine Panerai) logo
• Comfortable, flexible formulation resistant to cracking
• 26mm width tapering to 22mm at buckle

Buckle​

The buckle system consists of:

• Titanium pin buckle with DLC coating
• Correct trapezoidal shape
• Secure fastening with multiple adjustment holes
• Laser-etched Panerai branding

Alternative Strap Options​

Like the genuine PAM00616, the VS Factory replica accepts standard 26mm Panerai straps, allowing for customization with:

• Leather (calf, alligator, or vintage-style)
• NATO or fabric straps
• Additional rubber straps in different colors
• Even metal bracelets (though these may require modification)
  
  
  

Comparison to Other Replica Versions​

VS Factory's PAM00616 stands above previous attempts from other manufacturers in several key areas:
Material Authenticity:
Earlier replicas used simple carbon fiber layups or even painted metal to approximate Carbotech. VS Factory's composite more accurately replicates the texture and properties of genuine Carbotech.
Movement Accuracy:
Pre-VS Factory replicas relied on decorated 7750 movements with incorrect balance positions (11 o'clock rather than 7 o'clock). The in-house P.9000 clone eliminates this obvious tell.
Detail Precision:
Small but important details like the recessed bezel pearl, correct lume colors, and carbon fiber crown guard were often overlooked or poorly executed in other versions.
Build Quality:
VS Factory's attention to CNC machining tolerances results in better water resistance, smoother bezel action, and more precise case finishing than competing replicas.

Pros and Cons​

Advantages:

• Exceptional material replication (Carbotech)
• Highly accurate P.9000 clone movement
• Excellent lume performance
• Lightweight yet durable construction
• Faithful recreation of Panerai's design DNA
• Good value compared to genuine (~1/20th the price)

Limitations:

• Carbon fiber can be damaged by severe impacts
• Movement finishing not quite gen-level
• Some color shades may vary slightly
• Water resistance not fully tested to 300m
• Limited availability due to production complexity

Conclusion: Is the VS Factory PAM00616 Worth It?​

For collectors who appreciate Panerai's innovative use of materials and bold design language but cannot justify the genuine article's $15,000+ price tag, the VS Factory PAM00616 represents an outstanding alternative. Its combination of authentic Carbotech replication, reliable in-house movement, and meticulous attention to detail sets a new standard for what replica watches can achieve.
While purists will always spot subtle differences under close examination, this replica captures about 95% of the genuine PAM00616 experience at a fraction of the cost. For daily wear and enjoyment, it's arguably one of the most convincing Panerai replicas ever produced.

Final Verdict:

• Accuracy to Genuine: 9/10
• Build Quality: 9/10
• Movement Performance: 8.5/10
• Value Proposition: 9.5/10
• Overall Recommendation: Highly Recommended

Would you consider adding this impressive replica to your collection? Share your thoughts in the comments below!