A fake IW371717 compared to a genuine IWC Portugieser Chronograph usually shows its biggest gaps in case finishing, dial printing, subdial spacing, movement operation, and overall weight. The better replicas get the 41 mm case shape and two-subdial layout close, but the genuine watch still wins on crisp edges, lacquer depth, and chronograph feel.
Quick pick: which fake IW371717 to compare first
Pick the version with the correct 41 mm case profile, subdials at 12 and 6, a domed sapphire crystal, and applied numeral markers first. That version gives the closest stand-alone impression and is the fairest starting point for a fake IW371717 compared to the real thing. Compare cheaper 7750-based copies only after you have handled the better case set.
- First pick: Premium Asia 7750 or modified chronograph with correct subdial spacing, applied markers, and a clean date window. Best for side-by-side comparison.
- Second pick: Mid-tier copy with a good dial but a thicker caseback, louder rotor, and softer pusher feel.
- Third pick: Budget copy with printed markers, wrong date font, and sharp case edges. Use it only as a visual reference, not as a close match.
Case finishing and proportions
The genuine Portugieser Chronograph has controlled transitions between polished and brushed surfaces, and the lugs flow into the case without hard lines. On a fake IW371717, the case edges often feel sharper, the lug tops can be flatter, and the bezel polish may look brighter under direct light. Check the crown logo, the caseback engraving depth, and the gap between the case and the strap. These small details separate a close copy from a rough one.
Fake IW371717 Synonym: What You Need to Know
Dial printing and layout
The dial is where most comparisons are won or lost. Genuine dials have deep lacquer, thin printing, and applied Arabic numerals with clean edges. Replicas often show thicker numeral edges, flat printing, and subdial rings that sit too deep or too wide. Look at the leaf hands, the date font, and the spacing between the subdials. A fake IW371717 compared to the real watch will usually reveal a slightly heavier date window frame and less refined minute track printing.
Movement and chronograph feel
Depending on the generation being copied, the genuine IW3716 uses IWC Calibre 69355, while many replicas use an Asia 7750 derivative. That difference shows up in pusher feel, rotor noise, and how the chronograph starts and resets. The genuine movement feels more controlled at the pusher, and the reset is crisp. A replica may have a softer start, a louder rotor, or a seconds hand that hesitates. Ask for a short video of the chronograph running before you compare two copies.
Strap, clasp, and weight
Genuine alligator straps are supple and sit flat against the wrist; replica straps often feel stiff and use embossed leather with heavier stitching. The clasp engraving and buckle finish are also easy tells. Weight is another quick check. A fake IW371717 compared to the genuine watch often feels lighter or top-heavy because the caseback and movement finish differ. Wear both on the same wrist for a few minutes and note how the watch head sits.
Side-by-side checklist
- Measure the case at the bezel and compare lug shape.
- Check subdial positions at 12 and 6, then check the date window font.
- Look at hand length and how far the tips reach the minute track.
- Inspect the crown logo and caseback engraving under a loupe.
- Start and reset the chronograph, then listen for rotor noise.
- Compare strap stiffness, stitching, and clasp finish.
- Weigh the watch head and note the balance on the wrist.
Options ranked by accuracy
- Premium copy: Best first pick for a serious comparison. Correct case size, applied markers, and a movement that operates with a firmer pusher feel.
- Mid-tier copy: Good dial from arm's length, but the caseback is thicker and the strap needs replacing for a closer look.
- Budget copy: Useful for parts or a rough visual reference only. The printing, date font, and case edges are the first tells.
Do not treat a low price as proof of a better copy, and do not assume every seller uses the same factory. Compare the case, dial, movement, and strap in that order. The best fake IW371717 compared to the genuine watch is the one that gets the case and dial right first, because those are the details you see before anyone hears the movement.