The replica IW371645 is a counterfeit copy of the IWC Portugieser Chronograph, a 40.9 mm stainless steel watch with a twin register chrono layout and the Valjoux 7750 based caliber 79350. The better replicas match case diameter, subdial spacing at 12 and 6, and dial printing; budget versions miss those three points first. Before you pay, confirm the movement, the case thickness, and the dial text against photos of the genuine reference.
What is the IW371645?
Reference IW371645 belongs to the Portugieser Chronograph family. The genuine watch measures roughly 40.9 mm across and 12.6 mm thick, uses a sapphire crystal front and back, and carries 30 m of water resistance.
The dial layout is the signature: a 30 minute chronograph counter at 12, running seconds at 6, a central chrono seconds hand, and a date window at 3. IWC pairs the reference with an alligator strap and a steel pin or deployant buckle.
What movement does a good replica IW371645 use?
Most IW371645 replicas run one of three movements: a quartz module, an Asian 7750 clone, or a genuine or refurbished ETA 7750. Only the two mechanical options reproduce correct subdial positions and a sweeping chronograph seconds hand.
How do I spot a quartz replica IW371645?
The chronograph seconds hand jumps once per second instead of sweeping, and the running seconds at 6 ticks in hard steps. A quartz case also tends to feel thin and light, and the pushers lack the resistance of a mechanical chrono.
Which details give a replica away?
- Subdial spacing and size, which drift toward the center on cheap cases.
- Case thickness above 13 mm, caused by a taller Asian 7750 and a spacer ring.
- Dial print, including the Schaffhausen line, the IWC wordmark, and the numerals.
- Crystal clarity and anti reflective coating, which looks flat or blue on low tier builds.
- Chronograph reset, where the seconds hand lands off the 12 marker.
- Date font, alignment, and the speed of the date flip near midnight.
- Caseback engraving depth, reference number font, and serial placement.
What should I check before buying?
- Ask for timestamped QC photos of the front, caseback, crown side, and clasp.
- Request a timing machine reading: rate, amplitude, and beat error.
- Ask for a video of the chronograph start, stop, and reset.
- Confirm the movement name and the factory or version code in writing.
- Pay with a method that offers buyer protection.
How much does a replica IW371645 cost?
Tiers matter more than the asking price. Quartz builds sit at the bottom, Asian 7750 builds in the middle, and Swiss movement builds at the top of the replica market. A higher price does not guarantee a better dial, so compare photos against the genuine reference instead of trusting a label.
Can a replica IW371645 be serviced?
Independent watchmakers can service an Asian 7750 clone, but parts supply varies and labor can approach the price of the watch itself. Genuine ETA 7750 parts fit the better clones, which is one reason some buyers seek those versions out.
Is buying a replica IW371645 legal?
No. Trafficking in counterfeit goods is a federal crime in the United States under 18 U.S.C. 2320, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection can seize shipments. An authorized IWC service center will not repair or authenticate a replica, and resale value stays close to zero.