VS (XF) Factory has finally released the Conquest, and it is the highly anticipated 43mm version. ZF Factory offers the 40mm variant. VS has perfectly recreated more complex watches such as the Submariner and Omega Seamaster 600, so a relatively simple timepiece like the Conquest is well within its capabilities. I have great confidence in this model!
Some of you will surely ask which one is better, ZF or XF. Let me share my thoughts here.
Everyone knows ZF used to make the top-tier Conquest in the past. But when it comes to build quality, I lean more toward VS. Many of ZF’s models are outsourced to other manufacturers. I cannot confirm which watches are genuinely produced in-house, apart from their IWC line. VS, however, maintains a consistent baseline of quality — and I mean that wholeheartedly. Overall, ZF’s Conquest is acceptable. Its main flaw lies with the clasp: on brand-new pieces, opening and closing feels stiff. This is partly due to Conquest’s older clasp mechanism. After roughly a month of wear, the metal parts break in and the operation improves significantly. In my opinion, VS’s clasp has a smoother action and performs better.
For movements, ZF uses the 2824 fitted with a retrograde mechanism, and the 2824 is renowned for reliable performance. VS is believed to adopt the 2892. I will disassemble one to verify once bulk stock arrives. There is no clear winner between these two movements. The Conquest case is thick enough to accommodate the 2824 with plenty of room. That said, the 2892 comes with a slightly higher procurement cost.
A quick note on sizing: VS chose to replicate the 43mm version as a strategy for differentiated competition, avoiding direct rivalry with ZF’s 40mm model. Additionally, demand for large-dial Conquest watches has been rising. Releasing the 43mm variant offers safer sales prospects. Initially, only black and blue dial versions will be available; we will wait and see whether more colours launch later. The photos here are just placeholders. Once bulk goods are ready, we will get our hands on the watch and write a full review.
