The replica IW323720 is a 1:1 copy of IWC's IW323720, a stainless-steel automatic with a 40 mm-class case, sapphire crystal and date display. A strong replica matches the original diameter, thickness, brushing and dial text within close tolerances. Budget builds start near $90, while super clones with Swiss-grade movements sell for $350 to $600.
What separates a 1:1 replica IW323720 from a cheap copy?
Case geometry is the first tell. The original mixes brushed and polished surfaces with tight transitions, and a replica that skips that step looks flat under light. Look for 316L stainless steel rather than zinc alloy or plated brass.
Crystal quality is the second tell. Sapphire with an inner anti-reflective coating keeps the dial legible at an angle, while mineral glass washes out and scratches within months.
- Case: 316L steel, dimensions within 0.5 mm of the original
- Crystal: sapphire with anti-reflective coating on the inside
- Dial: applied indices, correct font, centered date window
- Crown: screw-down, engraved, smooth threads
- Bracelet or strap: matched lug width, solid end links, working clasp
How much does a replica IW323720 cost?
Three tiers dominate the market, and each buys a different level of accuracy.
- Economy ($90 to $180): mineral glass, stamped caseback, low-beat 21-jewel movement, rough finishing, often 5 to 10 grams lighter than the original
- Mid tier ($200 to $350): sapphire crystal, decent brushing, 2824-clone movement, acceptable dial printing
- Super clone ($380 to $650): ETA 2824-2 or Sellita SW200, near-exact dimensions, AR coating, hand-finished case edges
Which movement should sit inside a replica IW323720?
An ETA 2824-2 or Sellita SW200 runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour with a 38 to 40 hour power reserve, and both are widely serviced. Seagull and Hangzhou 2824 clones are a solid middle option when a watchmaker has parts on hand.
Avoid any watch that beats at 21,600 vph. That is a low-beat movement dressed up to look costly, and the stutter of the seconds hand gives it away.
How do you spot a low-grade replica IW323720?
- Seconds hand ticks or stutters instead of sweeping
- Dial text is blurry, too bold, or off-center
- Date sits high, low, or pushed to one side of the window
- Hollow end links that rattle against the case
- Caseback engraving is shallow or doubled
Can you swim with a replica IW323720?
Water resistance ratings follow ISO 22810, and a 3 bar label only covers splashes. Gaskets on inexpensive replicas are often dry or missing, so a static pressure test at a local shop is worth the small fee before any contact with water.
If the watch passes at 5 bar or better, hand washing and rain are fine. Swimming and diving are not, unless a watchmaker has resealed and retested it.
Frequently asked questions
Is buying a replica IW323720 legal?
Rules vary by country. In the United States, Customs and Border Protection can seize counterfeit trademarked goods at import, and selling them carries separate risk. Personal ownership is treated differently from distribution in many jurisdictions, but it is not a guarantee.
Will a watchmaker service a replica IW323720?
Independent watchmakers usually will, and many stock ETA and Sellita parts. Brand-owned service centers generally refuse replica work.
Does a replica IW323720 hold value?
No. Resale is thin and prices drop sharply after purchase, so treat the spend as a wearing cost rather than an investment.