Quick answer
A replica IW323708 is a copy of an IWC watch built by an unauthorized factory. Sellers split these copies into three tiers: low, mid, and high. The movement is the largest difference. Low tier copies use quartz or a basic automatic. High tier copies use a cloned automatic with decorated bridges and a rotor stamped like the original. No tier carries an IWC warranty. IWC will not service one. In the US, importing a counterfeit watch is illegal and the parcel can be seized.
The reference number
IWC builds reference numbers from the letters IW plus six digits. The first digits point to a model family and case type. The last digits point to a dial or strap variant. IW323708 sits in the 3237 block. Confirm the exact case size, movement caliber, crystal type, and water resistance rating in IWC's catalog before you compare a copy against anything. A caseback photo is the fastest way to check which reference a seller claims to copy.
What changes between tiers
- Case: low tier uses plated brass or 316L steel with soft edges. High tier uses 316L or 904L steel with sharper lug lines and polished chamfers.
- Dial: low tier uses printed indices. High tier uses applied markers and a closer font weight.
- Crystal: mineral glass on low tier. Sapphire with an anti-reflective coating on high tier.
- Movement: quartz, basic automatic, or cloned automatic with engraved bridges.
- Water resistance: sellers quote 50 m to 300 m. Gaskets on copies are not tested to those figures.
How to inspect one
- Ask for a caseback photo and match the engraved digits.
- Measure case diameter with calipers, not from a photo.
- Wind the movement and check the beat rate. 28,800 vph equals 8 beats per second.
- Check date window alignment and the magnifier if the model has one.
- Check the fit between the bracelet end links and the case. Gaps are smaller on high tier copies.
Legal status in the US
Counterfeit watches are illegal to import and to sell in the United States. Customs and Border Protection can seize a shipment and destroy it. Trademark counterfeiting carries civil and criminal penalties. Penalties land on sellers and importers first.
What is not known
Factories publish no spec sheets. Two copies sold under the same reference can differ in case size, dial print, and movement. IWC does not supply service parts for these copies. Treat any quoted water resistance, steel grade, or movement origin as a seller claim until it is tested.