The IW321801 is an IWC reference number. Replica copies of it sell from about $60 to $900. The price gap tracks three things: case machining, dial print and the movement. A $70 copy and a $600 copy can carry the same reference number and look different on the wrist.
Confirm the model first
IWC uses the IW prefix for all references, and sellers reuse one number across several dial colors and case sizes. Before you compare factories, open IWC's own catalog and note the case diameter, thickness, dial layout and movement. Listings for this number differ, so the catalog entry is the baseline.
Case and dial checks
Ask for caliper photos. Case diameter should sit within 0.3 mm of the catalog figure, and thickness within 0.5 mm. Thin cases on cheap copies come from a small movement plus a spacer ring.
- Lugs: bevel line sharp and level on both sides.
- Crown: threads engage in one turn, no wobble.
- Dial: applied indices sit flat, printed text holds a clean edge under a loupe.
- Date wheel: font weight matches the catalog photo, number sits in the window center.
- Crystal: anti-reflective coating shows faint blue or no tint, not purple.
- Caseback engraving: depth and font weight steady across the text.
Movement tiers
Three groups cover most of the market.
- Asian 2813 automatic, $60 to $120. Hacking, 21,600 vph, audible rotor, slow date change.
- Miyota 9015 or Seiko NH35, $180 to $300. Miyota runs 28,800 vph, NH35 runs 21,600 vph, spare parts are easy to source.
- Clone of the IWC calibre, $400 to $900. Correct hand winding and sub-dial layout, higher service cost.
Ask for a timegrapher photo. Rate within plus or minus 10 seconds per day and amplitude above 250 degrees are fair numbers for a new copy.
Water resistance
ISO 22810 sets the test criteria for water resistant watch marking. A replica ships with dry gaskets and no pressure test. Treat any depth figure on the dial as decoration until a watchmaker tests the case.
Payment and inspection
Buy from a seller who sends photos of the actual unit, not factory stock images. Note the weight in grams and the case number between the lugs. Use a payment method with a refund path. Open the parcel on camera.
Legal position
Brand names and logos fall under trademark law in most markets, and customs agencies seize counterfeit watches at entry. Swiss authorities report seizures each year. Check your local import rules before you order.