Short answer
"Fake IW371642" is a search term for a counterfeit or replica of the IWC Portugieser Chronograph reference IW371642. The number is a genuine IWC reference. A fake watch carries the same number on the caseback. IWC did not build it.
What the reference is
IW371642 sits in the IWC Portugieser Chronograph line, the IW3716 series. Current production in that series uses a 41 mm stainless steel case, calibre 69355, a 30 minute counter at 12 o'clock, small seconds at 6 o'clock, and a date window at 3 o'clock. The suffix after the base number marks a dial, hand, or strap variant. IWC does not publish a full public sheet for every variant. Confirm the exact dial color, strap, and production years for IW371642 with IWC or an authorized dealer before you buy.
Price gap
Genuine steel Portugieser Chronograph models list near $7,000 to $9,000 USD. Used examples trade below list. Replica sellers list the same reference from $80 to $800. That gap drives the market. Prices move, so check a current source for the exact figures.
Replica grades
- Low grade: $80 to $150. Quartz or a basic automatic. Case too thick. Subdials printed, not functional on some units.
- Mid grade: $200 to $350. Better case shape. Movement is a generic Chinese calibre, not a copy of the 69355.
- Super clone: $400 to $800. Cloned case, engraved rotor, copied caseback text, custom movement plates.
Authenticity checks
- Caseback engraving. Genuine text is sharp and level. Fake text is shallow or uneven.
- Movement. Ask for a photo of the rotor and bridges. Calibre 69355 has a set bridge layout.
- Subdial spacing. Counters sit at 12 and 6. Copies misplace the date window or the counter centers.
- Pushers. Genuine pushers start and stop with a short, firm click. Copies feel soft or gritty.
- Serial and reference. IWC can confirm a reference and serial pairing. Ask the seller for both numbers.
- Papers. Box, warranty card, and receipt. A card that does not match the case number is a flag.
- Weight and finish. A steel case and bracelet weigh more than plated brass or zinc alloy.
Legal and import facts
Counterfeit watches are illegal to import into the United States. US Customs and Border Protection can seize shipments. Trademark law covers the IWC name and logo, not just the watch body. Resale carries seizure risk and civil claims. Personal import rules do not legalize counterfeits.
Before you buy
Get the reference and case number in writing. Get photos of the movement, caseback, and crown. Set a price ceiling. If the asking price is far below the used market, the watch is a counterfeit or the listing is fraudulent. An IWC service center can verify a watch and quote a service. A seller who refuses a service center check is a seller to avoid.