Short answer
IW510501 is an IWC reference number in the Pilot's Watch family. IWC has used the Pilot's Watch name across dozens of references since the 1930s, so confirm the exact case size, calibre, and dial layout against IWC's own reference list before you compare a replica. Sellers use the number without a fixed spec. Two watches from two sellers under the same listing title can differ by 2mm in diameter and by a full movement generation.
What the genuine reference covers
IWC builds the Pilot's Watch line in steel, titanium, and ceramic. Common case sizes are 41mm, 43mm, and 46mm. Genuine models use in-house calibres: the 32110 and 32111 for three-hand automatics, the 69380 for chronographs, and the 52010 for the Big Pilot. Water resistance on most Pilot's Watch cases is 6 bar (60m) or 10 bar (100m). Sapphire crystals carry anti-reflective coating on both faces. Dial text reads "IWC Schaffhausen" or "International Watch Co." depending on the reference. Lug widths sit at 20mm, 21mm, or 22mm by size.
Fake IW510501 Pilots Watch Comparison Guide
Replica tiers and price bands
- Low tier, $60 to $130. Alloy or low-grade steel case, mineral glass, 21-jewel DG2813 or a quartz movement, printed dial.
- Mid tier, $150 to $280. 316L steel, sapphire crystal, Miyota 8215 or a 7750-based chronograph, usable lume.
- High tier, $300 to $600. Case profile copied from a genuine sample, clone movement, engraved caseback, matched date font.
What to inspect
- Case diameter and lug width. Measure with calipers. Listings round up.
- Dial print. Genuine text has sharp serifs and even spacing. Copy print looks thicker at the edges.
- Date window. Position, frame, and numeral font. The font is the hardest part to copy.
- Crystal. Use a tap test and an angle reflection test. Sapphire shows almost no distortion from the side.
- Caseback engraving. Check the reference number, serial, and the IWC fish or Probus Scafusia wording.
- Movement. A rotor that spins with a rattle points to a 7750 derivative. An IWC rotor turns with a low hum.
- Lume. Charge under a lamp for 30 seconds. Super-LumiNova glows green or blue and fades over hours.
- Water resistance. Assume zero unless the seller pressure-tests the watch and reports the result.
Legal and practical notes
Counterfeit watches are illegal to import into the United States. US Customs and Border Protection seizes shipments, and the buyer loses the money paid. IWC does not service or repair counterfeit watches, so a failed movement means a full replacement. Resale value at auction houses is zero. If you want the flieger look at a lower cost, Steinhart, Laco, and Stowa build pilot-style watches with Swiss or German movements, and those can be serviced.