A fake IW545110 is a replica of the IWC Portuguese Hand-Wound, reference IW5451-10. Judge one by working from the genuine specification first, then checking case proportions, dial printing, hand shape, movement type and caseback engraving in that order. Most replicas fail on case thickness and on the small seconds subdial position, not on the logo.
Build Your Reference Baseline
You cannot grade a copy without a fixed standard. Spend ten minutes assembling the real numbers before you look at a single photo.
- Record the genuine case diameter and thickness for IW5451-10 from the maker's own product page.
- Note the dial layout: small seconds at 6 o'clock, applied numerals, feuille hands.
- Write down the movement family, winding direction and power reserve.
- Save three macro photos of a genuine example from different angles for side-by-side viewing.
Check the Case Before Anything Else
Thickness and profile
Replica cases are usually a millimeter or more thicker than the original because the copied movement sits differently in the case. Ask for a caliper reading of the caseback to crystal, not a tape measure across the lugs.
Lugs and finish
Look at lug curvature and the transition from brushed to polished surfaces. Genuine Portuguese cases have a crisp, continuous line along the lug; replicas often show a soft edge or an uneven brush grain under raking light.
Read the Dial Like a Printer
- Zoom to 200 percent on the brand text and check letter spacing and stroke weight.
- Confirm the numerals are applied and sit level, with no visible glue halo.
- Measure the small seconds subdial position relative to the 6 o'clock marker.
- Check the feuille hands for taper consistency and a clean center bore.
- Compare the dial color under daylight, not studio light, since silver-plated dials read very differently indoors.
Inspect the Movement and Caseback
Hand-wound replicas frequently hide a quartz or automatic movement behind a decorated plate. Ask the seller for a video of the balance in motion and of the crown being wound. On the caseback, check engraving depth, reference number format and the alignment of the serial against the case center line.
Red Flags That End the Conversation
- Stock photos only, with no macro shots of the actual piece.
- No answer on movement type or winding direction.
- Water resistance claims stated without a test.
- Pressure to pay outside a platform with a return window.
Keep the Legal Side in View
Counterfeit watches are illegal to sell in the United States and buyers have limited recourse when a replica is misrepresented as genuine. Treat any replica as a novelty purchase, keep the transaction documented, and confirm the return policy in writing before payment.