Comparing a fake IW371479 to the genuine Portugieser Chronograph comes down to three things: case proportions, dial layout, and how the chronograph actually behaves. Our first pick is the version that reproduces the 41 mm steel case and the twin vertical counters at 12 and 6 most faithfully — everything after that on this list is an alternative for a different budget or a different priority. Here is what separates a convincing copy from a careless one.
Key Features
- 41 mm stainless steel case with the reference's slim, stepped bezel and tapered lugs
- Twin vertical chronograph counters at 12 and 6 o'clock, matching the original dial architecture
- Leaf-shaped hour and minute hands with applied Arabic numerals
- Working pushers with a crisp start, stop, and reset action
- Domed anti-reflective crystal with the slight edge distortion of the real watch
- Display caseback showing a decorated automatic movement
- Alligator-grain strap with a signed pin buckle
- Silver-plated, blue, or black dial finishes
Materials and specifications
The better copies use 316L stainless steel rather than plated base metal, and sapphire or hardened mineral crystal instead of plain glass. Inside, most credible sellers fit a Chinese-made automatic chronograph movement with roughly a 40-hour reserve; ask which calibre is used, because the module design decides whether the subdials sweep smoothly or tick. Case thickness is the real tell — anything much over 13.5 mm sits noticeably taller on the wrist than the genuine profile, and the date window should be crisp and correctly positioned at 6.
Shipping and returns
Established sellers ship tracked in discreet outer packaging, with international delivery typically running one to three weeks. Get the return window in writing before you pay — a 7 to 14 day inspection period is standard, and a seller who will not accept a return on a defective movement is not worth the risk. Be aware that counterfeit goods can be seized at import, so understand the policy you are buying under.
How close is a fake IW371479 to the genuine watch?
At arm's length a good copy is very close; under a loupe the differences show up in dial printing sharpness, hand finishing, and movement decoration.
Which version should you pick first?
Start with the steel case and silver-plated dial with vertical subdials — it is the most common combination and the easiest to inspect in seller photos before you commit.
What should you check before ordering?
Ask for real photos of the actual unit, confirm the movement calibre and measured case thickness, and get the return terms in writing.