What a fake IW371493 is

A fake IW371493 is a counterfeit copy of the IWC Portugieser Chronograph reference IW371493. It is not an IWC watch. The reference belongs to the Portugieser Chronograph family, so most fakes copy the 40.9 mm steel case, the twin subdials, the date window, and the leather strap. The fastest check is to confirm the reference and serial with IWC, then compare the dial layout and caseback engraving to known examples. A seller who cannot provide clear macro photos, service history, or IWC verification should be treated as a risk.

Prerequisites

  • A 10x loupe or a phone camera with macro mode.
  • Bright, diffuse light and a clean background.
  • The seller's reference number, serial number, and full photo set.
  • Access to IWC customer service for reference and serial verification.

How to spot a fake IW371493

  1. Ask for the full reference and serial. Compare both to the IWC archive before you discuss price. A genuine IW371493 should match the case, dial, and strap configuration for that reference.
  2. Photograph the dial straight on. Check subdial spacing, date window position, and font weight. Fakes often place the subdials too close together or use a date window that sits too low.
  3. Compare the hands and markers under a loupe. Genuine applied markers have crisp edges and consistent polish. Replica markers often show rounded corners, uneven lume, or glue at the base.
  4. Inspect the caseback engraving. Look for sharp lettering, correct spacing, and a deep, even cut. Fake IW371493 casebacks often use shallow laser etching and wrong reference fonts.
  5. Check the chronograph pushers. Start and stop the chronograph, then reset it. The pushers should feel firm and the hands should snap back to zero. A soft or sticky reset points to a low-grade clone movement.
  6. Look at the movement through the caseback if the model has a display back. Genuine IWC finishing and rotor engraving are clean. Replica movements often show rough edges, wrong jewel count, or a rotor that does not match the reference.
  7. Measure the case. Compare diameter, thickness, and lug width to the IW371493 specification. Small differences matter. A fake often runs thicker or has wider lugs.
  8. Check the strap and buckle. Genuine IWC leather, stitching, and buckle engraving are consistent. Fake straps often use stiff leather, uneven stitching, and a stamped buckle.
  9. Review the paperwork. Match the warranty card, box, and manual to the reference and serial. A real IW371493 should have a coherent set, not a mix of unrelated IWC documents.
  10. Get an independent inspection. Ask a watchmaker to open the case and verify the movement, case number, and dial originality. Do this before you pay.

Red flags to walk away from

  • Price far below the normal IW371493 market range.
  • Seller refuses macro photos of the dial, caseback, or movement.
  • Serial number does not match the paperwork.
  • Reference number font looks wrong or inconsistent across the watch and card.
  • Chronograph reset is soft, sticky, or misaligned.

What to do if you already bought a fake

Stop wearing the watch and keep the listing, messages, and payment record. Ask a watchmaker for a written opinion on the movement and case. Contact the seller in writing and request a return. If the seller refuses, dispute the payment through your card issuer or platform. Report the listing to the marketplace. Do not sell the fake IW371493 as genuine.