The short answer

Public IWC Schaffhausen catalogs and dealer listings do not show a reference numbered IW93870. The string follows the shape of an IWC reference, but no genuine model is tied to it. A listing for a "fake IW93870" therefore has no real counterpart to copy. It is a replica of nothing.

How IWC reference numbers are built

IWC stamps references with the letters IW followed by digits. Current production uses six digits, such as IW377714 or IW500710. Older pieces use five. Sellers and forums often drop the IW prefix and quote only the digits.

The digits are not random. Groups of them map to a family, a case material, and a dial or strap variant. A valid reference can be looked up, priced, and serviced. A reference that returns nothing is a gap, not a rare model.

Why a reference with no match is a warning sign

  • No parts catalog, no service schedule, and no resale record exist for it.
  • Movement photos on such listings often show generic Chinese or Japanese movements, not IWC calibers.
  • The price sits far below any comparable genuine piece.
  • Papers and boxes appear without a serial that matches the case.

Checks to run before buying any watch

  1. Read the full caseback engraving and compare it with the seller's photos.
  2. Ask for the serial number and ask IWC or an authorized dealer to confirm it.
  3. Request movement photos with the caseback removed.
  4. Price the reference against auction results and dealer inventory.
  5. Confirm the seller's return policy in writing.

US law on counterfeit watches

Trafficking in counterfeit goods carries criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 2320, including prison terms and fines. Trademark owners can also sue under the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1114. U.S. Customs and Border Protection seizes counterfeit shipments at ports of entry, and buyers can lose both the goods and the money paid.

What is not known

I could not confirm any IWC release, prototype, or limited edition tied to IW93870. If a seller claims one exists, ask for the catalog page, the year, and the movement caliber. A claim without those three items is unsupported.