In a market filled with knock-offs, being able to spot genuine designer sunglasses is no easy feat. This in-depth guide will help you spot authentic Oakleys, Pradas, and Ray-Bans, while staying away from the fake rip-offs, taking into consideration factors such as price, finish, authenticity certificates, packaging, SKU, barcode, lens etchings, stickers, lens clarity, logo placement and more.
1. Price: Genuine designer sunglasses, typically demand a premium price, this is as a result of their craftsmanship and the high-quality materials that are used. A seemingly unbelievable deal should make you a skeptic. If the price looks too good to be true that's probably because it is.
2. Finish: Original designer sunglasses usually have a flawless finish. Any unevenness, rough spots, or bumps should send your counterfeit alarm bells ringing.
3. Certificate of Authenticity: Reputable designer sunglasses often come with a certificate of authenticity. If it's not included, you may have a fake on your hands.
4. Packaging: Authentic sunglasses come in high-quality packaging, with the brand's logo prominently displayed. Shoddy packaging or logos all over the place are obvious signs of a fake.
5. SKU & Barcode: Authentic sunglasses have unique SKUs and barcodes, you will find them on the inside arm and they hey will be easy to read with clear even straight printing. Always check that the codes align with those listed on the brand's official website otherwise you could be paying good money for a counterfeit.
6. Lens Etchings: Many designer sunglasses have subtle etchings on the frame and in many cases a subtle etching on the lenses too, which is something fake glasses normally don’t include or try very badly to do so.
7. Stickers: Genuine sunglasses very rarely have stickers on their lenses. On the other hand, counterfeits normally use stickers, some even making fraudulent and harmful claims that read "UV protection" when they are not.
8. Lens Clarity: Authentic sunglasses offer superior clarity, while fakes might distort your vision or show blemishes.
9. Logo Placement: Logos where there shouldn’t be one is very common in the world of fakes. You should always verify official images from the brand’s website for confirmation.
10. Raised Seams: Genuine sunglasses typically have smooth seams. If you can easily notice glue or raised seams it means you could have a counterfeit in your hands.
11. Spelling: Even though this point doesn’t make sense or has no logic at all, counterfeit products sometimes are almost replicated exactly as the genuine version but often have spelling errors on the packaging, certificate or even the brand name itself. Look out for any misspellings.
12. Ear Socks & Rubber Pieces: On authentic sunglasses and glasses, for instance Oakleys, a soft, high-quality rubber is used for a better grip. Fakes usually go with a hard plastic instead.
13. Size: Counterfeit sunglasses normally don’t stick to the original size specifications. It’s usually not a massive size difference but if you know your glasses it's enough for you to spot that it’s a fake.
14. CE Marking: Sunglasses sold in the EU should carry a "CE" marking, indicating compliance with European safety standards. The absence of this mark on designer sunglasses sold within the EU is a warning sign. After Brexit, the familiar CE marking was stopped in January 2023 and the UKCA marking is used for placing goods on the market in Great Britain from January 2023.
SKU and Model Numbers: Genuine Oakleys feature an SKU that usually begins with 'OO'. Fakes often miss this detail. Additionally, Oakley's display model numbers and colour codes on the inside of the arms. Compare these details with the official website.
Ear Socks & Nose Pads: Genuine Oakleys have high-quality rubber ear socks and nose pads. The rubber is soft and maintains its grip when you sweat. Counterfeit versions often use lower-quality materials that feel hard and slippery.
Logo: Genuine Oakleys have the 'O' logo on their arms, which should be placed perfectly with no rough edges or misalignments. Some fakes may have painted logos that are prone to chipping off.
Model Numbers: Prada sunglasses also feature model numbers on the inner side of the temple. Authentic pairs will have the model number, lens type and measurements displayed clearly.
Prada Logo: Authentic Prada glasses will have the Prada logo on the lens and temple. Counterfeits may slip up with the logo by using incorrect fonts or uneven placement.
Case: Genuine Prada sunglasses come with a high-quality case that has the brand’s logo. If the case is missing or the logo on it is different from the official Prada logo, it's a counterfeit.
Serial Number: Genuine Ray-Ban sunglasses feature a serial number etched on the inner side of the temple or earpiece it will typically start with an RB. If there isn’t one or it doesn’t match up with the official database it’s a counterfeit.
Lens Logo: Authentic Ray-Bans have a 'RB' etched onto one lens, and the Ray-Ban logo on the other. Fakes often use a painted 'RB' instead or mess up where it should go or even the spelling of the logo.
Case: Genuine Ray-Bans come with a high-quality case. The logo should be embossed and it should also include a branded cleaning cloth.
By going through the above checklist, we hope you will find it easier to tell the difference between authentic and counterfeit designer sunglasses. Remember: if in doubt, always cross-check with official product images and descriptions on the brand’s website. It's your investment; so make sure it's spent on the genuine product you want, and not a low-quality and potentially harmful imitation.
Author: John Dreyer Optometrist Bsc(Hons), MCOPTOM, DipCLP
Created: 12 Jul 2023, Last modified: 15 Feb 2024
When it comes to purchasing sunglasses, it’s crucial to ensure that they are genuine. Counterfeit sunnies may not only fail to provide adequate protection for your eyes but can also pose various risks to your eye health.
To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of seven key factors to consider when determining the authenticity of sunglasses and lenses. By familiarizing yourself with these factors, you can confidently purchase sunnies that offer superior durability, and protection.
Choosing genuine sunglasses is essential for several reasons.
Firstly, authentic sunnies provide superior lenses that offer optimal protection against harmful UV rays, safeguarding your eyes from potential damage. The lenses in cheap or fake sunglasses often lack proper UV protection, putting your eyes at risk.
Secondly, genuine sunglasses are crafted with premium materials and superior construction, ensuring their durability and longevity. By investing in the real thing, you support ethical business practices and help combat the production and distribution of counterfeit goods.
Ultimately, choosing genuine sunglasses not only protects your eyes but also upholds the integrity of the eyewear industry, ensuring you receive a product that is worth your hard-earned money.
Spotting a fake pair just takes paying attention to the details. If you are planning to purchase or already purchased sunnies that you suspect may not be real, check out the following features.
One of the primary indicators of genuine glasses is branding. Genuine sunglasses, such as those from American Optical, prominently display their logo, brand name, and other identifiable marks on their frames, lenses, and cases.
Counterfeit or fake sunglasses often attempt to mimic these branding elements but may fall short in terms of accuracy.
Carefully examine the logo, font, and placement of the branding elements on designer sunglasses. Also check that the model number and frame size is consistent with the brand’s website or catalog.
Additionally, genuine frames often come with accompanying documentation, such as care guides or warranties, further reinforcing their legitimacy.
This can be an easy way to spot a fake. Genuine sunglasses are typically accompanied by well-designed packaging. This should include details such as the brand name, logo, and product information.
Counterfeit pairs may have a case that appears similar but lacks attention to detail. Look for signs of subpar printing, misspellings, or inconsistencies in model number, frame size measurements, color and design.
Genuine designer eyewear may also include accessories like branded microfiber cleaning cloths, protective cases, and product literature.
The clarity and durability of lenses are essential factors in determining the authenticity of sunglasses.
A genuine pair of sunglasses, like those from American Optical, utilizes lenses made from premium materials that offer excellent optical clarity and UV protection. American Optical lenses carry the etched AO logo on the left lens, and if they are polarized, that is etched on the right lens. AO offers glass and nylon lenses for the best clarity.
Genuine lenses often feature precise tinting, consistent color, and scratch-resistant coatings. To assess the caliber of lenses, examine them under different lighting conditions, double check for any distortions or imperfections, and verify the presence of a UV protection label or etching.
A durable pair of frames with proper construction is a crucial indicator of authenticity.
Designer brands prioritize the use of durable materials such as acetate and precious metals. These materials not only ensure longevity but also provide a comfortable fit.
Fake sunnies may employ inferior materials that can break easily or cause discomfort. Inspect the frames and lenses for sturdy construction, smooth finishes, and precise alignment.
Genuine or designer pairs often exhibit meticulous attention to detail in terms of design, symmetry, and overall craftsmanship.
The details in hinges, screws, and nose pads can reveal a lot about the authenticity of sunglasses.
A genuine pair features premium hardware with well-functioning hinges that allow smooth opening and closing without any squeaks or resistance. Genuine eyewear also use properly tightened screws that do not feel loose or wobbly and allow the frames to close effortlessly.
Nose pads in designer pairs are often made from soft and comfortable materials that provide a secure fit without causing irritation.
In contrast, counterfeit sunnies may have hinges that feel flimsy, screws loose or screws that are poorly fitted, or nose pads that are uncomfortable or substandard or of poor quality themselves.
Pricing or cost can be a valuable indicator of imitations when determining the authenticity of sunnies. While it’s tempting to purchase discounted sunnies, especially from unauthorized retailers or online marketplaces, it’s essential to exercise caution.
Significant price disparities compared to the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) can be a red flag. Unrealistically low prices may indicate counterfeit products.
When purchasing eyewear, especially from reputable brands like American Optical, opt for authorized sellers and be mindful of deals that seem too good to be true.
Authentic shades often showcase a high level of attention to detail, which sets them apart from counterfeit counterparts.
Look for small yet significant details such as precise engravings, consistent coloration, and clean finishing. Genuine shades from reputable brands invest time and effort into ensuring every aspect of the product meets their quality standards.
By paying attention to these details, you can distinguish the real thing from counterfeit alternatives.
In conclusion, selecting authentic sunnies is paramount to protect your eyes and invest in a quality product.
Genuine shades, like the ones offered by American Optical, provide superior lens quality, durability, and UV protection. By considering factors such as branding, lens quality, materials, hardware, pricing, and attention to detail, you can confidently determine the authenticity of sunglasses.
Contact us if you have any questions or doubts about the authenticity of your AO sunglasses.