What is a fake Da Vinci Chrono?
A fake Da Vinci Chrono is a replica of the IWC Da Vinci Chronograph. IWC Schaffhausen released the Da Vinci Chronograph in 2007. The watch has a round case, a chronograph function, and a self-winding movement. Replica makers copy these features. A fake uses a different movement. The case is often stainless steel. The dial may have printed numerals. Prices for fakes range from $200 to $800. Authentic IWC Da Vinci Chrono prices start at $7,000.
How to identify a fake Da Vinci Chrono
Check the movement. Authentic IWC Da Vinci Chrono uses the 89361 caliber. This movement has a flyback function. Fakes use Asian or Swiss ETA movements. The 89361 has a power reserve of 68 hours. A fake movement has a power reserve of 40 hours or less. Look at the case back. Authentic case backs have an engraved IWC logo and a reference number. Fakes often have shallow engravings. Check the date window. Authentic IWC places the date at 3 o'clock. Some fakes misalign the date. The dial on an authentic Da Vinci Chrono has applied indices. Fakes use printed indices. The subdials on an authentic watch sit at 12 and 6 o'clock. Fakes may place them differently.
Materials and construction
Authentic IWC Da Vinci Chrono cases use 18k gold or stainless steel. The stainless steel version has a polished finish. Fakes use 316L stainless steel. This steel is softer. It scratches easier. The crystal on an authentic watch is sapphire. Fakes use mineral glass or cheap sapphire. The strap on an authentic watch is alligator leather. Fakes use calf leather or synthetic material. The clasp on an authentic IWC has a double-folding design. Fakes use a single-folding clasp.
Price ranges and market
Authentic IWC Da Vinci Chrono watches sell for $7,000 to $30,000. The price depends on the metal and condition. Fake Da Vinci Chrono watches sell for $200 to $800. High-end fakes cost up to $1,200. These fakes use Swiss ETA movements. The market for fake watches is global. The OECD reports that counterfeit watches make up 5% of global trade in fake goods. U.S. Customs seizes thousands of fake watches each year.
Legal status in the United States
In the United States, importing a fake watch is illegal. The Trademark Counterfeiting Act of 1984 makes it a crime. Penalties include fines up to $2,000,000 and prison time. U.S. Customs and Border Protection can seize fake watches. The agency destroys seized items. Selling a fake watch in the U.S. can lead to civil lawsuits. IWC Schaffhausen pursues counterfeiters. Buying a fake watch for personal use is not a federal crime in most cases. However, customs can still seize the item.