Here below is a chart that shows the difference between 316L and 904L steel.
I doubt anyone would be able to tell the difference between 316 and 904 unless having both side by side and comparing them under the perfect lighting. Apparently 316L is able to corrode more easily than 904L (haven't found a source to confirm this beside Rolex stating this is why they switched). However, seeing that most people won't use their reps in water, I don't really see this as an issue (for most people).
My biggest concern regarding this, is the "lying" about using a material that's not being used. - HOWEVER, it is
not clear which version of ZZF
puretime used. He merely stated he used the
newest version he had available and could not verify the codes on the watch so we could verify if or not the watch was indeed a V2 or V3.
When that is said, it's also important to bear in mind that these companies are all competitors - and even though they are all "friendly" towards each other, they are still
competitors. In the real world of business, when a competitor does poorly your sales most likely rises. Money talks - regardless of how friendly people are.
Lastly, I have a friend in the metal industry. I talked to him about these type of steel and he did confirm what puretime stated earlier - about needing specialized equipment to make 904L due to it being much harder than 316L
Sorry Angus, I don't want to contradict you, but as I am a metal worker, if a factory can machining 316 L SS, it can machining 904L. Hardness of each alloy is not really signifiant ( a ltitle bit harder for 904L). Just a chimical difference ( more cobalt in 904L). Nothing justifies machines or tools change...
I am not saying above statement is a lie. I'm not working in the steel industry and is merely replying back what my friend told me. If you compare to the chart below, the 904L has a higher grade of chromium, a lot more nickel and even copper which is not included in the 316L.
Disclaimer: I have bought the ZZF V3. However I have never owned a ZZF product before and don't see myself biased. I will however when I get the watch have it tested at my friends work place and post the results here with pictures as proof.
