We have previously shared background information about how ZF Factory got started. After gaining popularity, most of its products are outsourced to third‑party manufacturers, and it does not even handle after‑sales service for these outsourced items. However, this Tudor Black Bay model is an exception.

Backed by Rolex’s reputation, Tudor has surged in popularity in recent years. Watch enthusiasts are well aware of Rolex’s outstanding build quality, yet its price tag remains out of reach for many buyers. Tudor presents a different option: most Tudor watches retail for around 20,000 to 30,000, while their quality is comparable to Rolex.

Hans Wilsdorf founded Tudor so that more people could enjoy quality on par with Rolex at a lower price point. This is a detailed look at the Tudor Heritage Black Bay, nicknamed the “Small Steel Shield” thanks to its robust protective construction.

2017 marked the 60th anniversary of Tudor dive watches, and the brand released this special Heritage Black Bay anniversary edition. Crafted entirely from steel, it earned the “Small Steel Shield” nickname. It blends vintage aesthetics with contemporary design elements. This three‑hand Black Bay variant stands out as ZF Factory’s flagship model, fully developed in‑house by the factory itself.

Comparing the dial details, the result is impressive! Whether it is the Tudor logo, date window, hands or lettering, the ZF version is indistinguishable from the genuine one.

Comparing the ZF Small Steel Shield with the genuine piece, it is hard to tell them apart when viewed from this angle.

ZF equips the watch with a sapphire crystal. As shown in the picture above, its transparency is extremely close to that of the genuine crystal.

The ZF model is fitted with a Seagull 2824 movement, delivering accurate and reliable timekeeping. Between the lugs, ZF has even finished the bevels at the same angle as the genuine watch — an admirable detail in craftsmanship.

The case back shares the identical shape. The lettering on the movement cover matches the genuine perfectly. The genuine one appears darker because dirt has accumulated inside the engravings. The brushed grain on the movement cover is also an exact match to the original.

Measurements confirm they have identical thickness, and the side profiles of both watches are exactly the same.

The brand’s rose logo pattern is faithfully reproduced in every detail.

The movement covers are nearly identical, just like twins. Although they were not stamped by the same machine, they are interchangeable.

The steel bracelet boasts refined detailing and outstanding overall texture, and it is interchangeable with the genuine bracelet.