Contrary to popular belief, Sunglasses Direct isn’t the only website that sells sunglasses. Our loyal followers may be surprised to learn that there are, actually, one or two alternatives. The majority of these sites are 100% legitimate, just like us. However, there is a growing minority that sell bootleg fashion items, often trading out of Far Eastern locations.
As part of our ongoing commitment to market research, we have spent a lot of time engaging with sunglasses wearers via online channels. One thing that has occurred to us, during this process, is the increasing number of concerned sunglasses buyers that can be found online. Many of these people have been seeking advice on how to spot a fraudulent pair of designer shades. As a response, we decided to put together this (hopefully) helpful, seven-point guide to telling fakes from the real things. We elected to focus on the finer details of one of the most popular brands that we stock – Ray-Ban.
1) First, take a look at the box that your Ray-Bans came in. A recycling logo should be clearly visible.
2) All Ray-Bans should carry a semi-permanent sticker. This sticker should outline details of: the serial number, manufacturer, distributor, lens and frame type and the sunglasses’ model number.
3) On the case, there should be a gold, engraved logo which reads “Luxottica”. If this logo is painted, transferred or missing, you could have a knock-off pair of Ray-Bans on your hands.
4) Hold up your Ray-Bans. Check the engraved logo (an interlocking “RB”) under the nose-piece. When holding the glasses the right way up, this engraving should be upside down.
5) Check the right eye lens for the brand logo engraving. If it can be found above the hinge, the glasses should be legitimate.
6) Inspect the rubber quality of the earpieces, frames and any other rubber parts. Good quality rubber will have an, almost, chalky feel to its surface.
7) Consider the quality of the authenticity card that came with the glasses. It should be made from a high-standard material. The text on the card should be completely free of any spelling and grammar errors. The ink, itself, should be impossible to smudge. Try testing the ink with a wet finger.
With this being said, there is no foolproof formula for judging whether or not a fashion item is the Real McCoy. The techniques of organised criminals are becoming more advanced, as technology continues to develop. As such, it’s vital for people who buy sunglasses online to have their wits about them.
If you ever do feel as though you’ve been ripped off, don’t hesitate to take action. You can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.