The IWC Portugieser Chronograph reference IW371660 belongs to the IW3716 generation, a 41 mm two-register chronograph powered by an in-house column-wheel movement. Replica versions sold online span roughly $80 quartz models to $500 and up "super clone" builds that copy the case proportions, applied numerals, and 12/6 subdial layout. None are genuine IWC watches, and the gap in finish quality between tiers is large.
What defines the IW3716 Portugieser Chronograph?
The IW3716 family keeps the classic Portugieser dial: a slim bezel, a wide dial, applied Arabic numerals, and leaf-shaped hands. The case measures 41 mm across and about 13 mm thick, with a sapphire crystal and a closed steel caseback. Water resistance is rated at 3 bar, so it is a dress chronograph rather than a sports watch.
Inside sits caliber 69355, an automatic column-wheel chronograph with roughly 46 hours of power reserve. The older IW3714 used a Valjoux 7750 base, so the switch to an in-house movement is the main technical change buyers care about. Reference numbers within the line differ by dial color, case metal, and strap, so IW371660 should be confirmed against IWC's published data before you compare a replica.
What do replica IW371660 watches get right?
High-tier replicas focus on the case profile first, because proportions are the most obvious trait on a dress watch. A good build holds close to 41 mm wide and 13 mm thick, with a polished bezel and brushed case sides that follow the original lines.
- Dial: Two subdials, running seconds at 6 and chronograph minutes at 12, plus a date window at 3. Applied numerals and printed railway-track scales are where cheap versions fail.
- Hands: Leaf-shaped hour and minute hands with a slim chronograph seconds hand. Weak polishing shows up as dull, flat metal.
- Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating in better replicas, mineral glass in budget ones.
- Strap: Alligator-grained leather with a signed-style pin buckle, or a steel bracelet on certain references.
What movements appear in replica IW371660 watches?
Budget replicas use quartz movements, which give a dead-tick seconds hand and a chronograph that steps once per second. Mid-tier automatic replicas use Chinese 7750-based movements, often with rotors and bridges decorated to suggest the 69355 layout. The most expensive builds use modified automatic movements with smoother chronograph pusher action, though the finish never matches an in-house IWC caliber.
How can you spot a low-quality replica?
- Check thickness first. Anything far below or above 13 mm throws off the side profile.
- Look at subdial spacing. On the original, the two registers sit near the vertical center line, not pushed to the edges.
- Inspect the printing. Dial text should be crisp and evenly spaced, with no blur or bleed.
- Ask about caseback engraving. Reference text should be sharp and consistent.
Is buying a replica IW371660 legal?
In the United States, selling a counterfeit watch that carries another company's trademark is illegal, and customs can seize shipments. Buying for personal use sits in a grayer area, but the item is still an infringing product and cannot be resold as genuine. Check your local rules before ordering, and treat any replica as a lookalike rather than an investment.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a replica IW371660 cost?
Expect about $80 to $150 for quartz versions, $250 to $400 for standard automatic replicas, and $450 and up for high-end builds with better finishing.
Is a replica IW371660 the same size as the original?
Better replicas match the 41 mm diameter and 13 mm thickness closely. Cheap versions often differ by a millimeter or more, which is visible on the wrist.
Can a replica be serviced?
Most watchmakers will service a Chinese automatic movement, but parts availability is limited. Budget for a replacement movement rather than a factory repair.