Reference basics
IW323708 is a case reference in the IWC Aquatimer Automatic 2000 line. IWC built the IW3237 family in the mid to late 2000s. Reported specs: 44 mm stainless steel case, a 2000 m water resistance rating, automatic movement, unidirectional dive bezel, screw-down crown, screw-down caseback. Catalogs list a black dial with white markers and lume plots. Strap options included rubber and steel. Sources disagree on some details, such as exact case diameter and the caliber number. Check the caseback stamp on any single watch.
What a replica changes
A replica copies the case, dial, and bezel. It does not copy the movement. Most replica builds of this reference use a 44 mm steel or alloy case, a sapphire or mineral crystal, and printed dial text. Movements are Asian automatics, such as the Seagull ST21 or a clone of an ETA 2824. Lume is paint applied to the dial. Bezel click count and feel differ from the original. Water resistance is not tested to 2000 m. Many copies do not reach 100 m.
Points to check
- Case diameter and lug width. Measure with calipers. Listed sizes can run 0.5 mm to 1 mm off.
- Dial print. Original text uses thin, sharp strokes. Copies show thicker strokes and uneven spacing.
- Date window. Check position and font. Many copies sit 1 mm low.
- Bezel action. The original turns one way with defined clicks.
- Crown threads. Turn the crown in and out 20 times. Grit or a stall point signals poor thread cutting.
- Movement. Look for a signed rotor. Most copies carry no IWC movement markings.
- Weight. A 44 mm steel diver on rubber is reported near 120 g to 140 g. Alloy cases sit lighter.
Water resistance
A pressure test at a dive shop costs little. Test to 100 m if you plan to swim. The 2000 m figure on the original caseback does not apply to a copy.
Price tiers
Replica sellers split this reference into tiers. Entry builds run about $80 to $150. Mid tier builds with a sapphire crystal and an ETA clone run about $200 to $400. Top tier builds claim a Swiss movement and a closer case. Prices for the genuine watch move with box, papers, service records, and bracelet type. Ask for photos of the caseback stamp and the movement.
Legal note
Replica watches copy trademarked designs. Import and sale are restricted in many countries, including the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection can seize shipments. A replica is not a genuine IWC watch and does not qualify for IWC service.