Quick answer

"Fake IW329042" is a listing term for a counterfeit watch sold as IWC reference IW329042. IWC does not sell that watch. The number sits in IWC's Pilot's Watch Automatic group. IWC's own catalog is the only source for the case size, movement, and dial layout of that reference. Confirm the number with IWC before you pay.

What the reference number means

IWC reference numbers carry six digits after "IW". The first four digits name the model group. The last two digits mark the variant, such as dial color, case metal, or strap. Counterfeit listings copy a number from photos of a real watch, or blend numbers from two models. Compare the number on the seller's page with the number in the caseback photo.

Checkpoints

  • Caseback: laser engraving on a real IWC watch is crisp. The reference number, serial number, and the IWC Schaffhausen line hold fixed positions.
  • Movement: current IWC Pilot's Watch models use in-house calibers. A replica holds a modified ETA, Sellita, or a Chinese clone. A sapphire caseback shows rotor engraving and surface finishing.
  • Dial: dial text is printed, not stamped. Measure the gap between "AUTOMATIC" and the depth rating against a photo from IWC.
  • Crown: the crown on the genuine watch screws down in about two turns. Replicas bind or stop short.
  • Price: a new IWC Pilot's Watch Automatic sells for thousands of US dollars. A listing at 5 to 10 percent of retail is a counterfeit.

Paperwork and serial numbers

Genuine IWC watches ship with a warranty card and a serial number that matches the caseback. Replica sellers print cards to match. A matching card proves nothing on its own. Ask for the receipt from an authorized dealer. An IWC service center can confirm a serial number and the model it belongs to.

Legal position in the US

US Customs and Border Protection seizes counterfeit watches at the border. Importing a counterfeit watch for personal use is not allowed. Selling one is trademark infringement. The FTC lists counterfeit goods as illegal commerce.

Steps before buying

  1. Get the full reference number and serial number in writing from the seller.
  2. Ask for photos of the caseback, the movement, and the warranty card.
  3. Verify the reference against IWC's catalog.
  4. Buy from an authorized dealer, or from a seller with a documented service history.
  5. If the price sits far below retail, treat the watch as counterfeit.

Note: the exact specs of IW329042 are not confirmed here. Check IWC directly.