Many websites sell sunglasses; several of these claim that the products are authentic, while others do not declare it but lead you to believe that they are. In reality, the consumer must be very careful to understand which of these e-commerce sites are trustworthy. Use common sense to spot original sunglasses.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Buy Authentic Glasses
Step 1. Examine the label and logo
On the original glasses, they are usually stamped on the lenses, on the temples or inside the terminals, they are always the same size, color and always use the same font. Any small error or variation could indicate that the glasses are fake. An error in the brand name ("Guci" instead of "Gucci", for example) or in the logo are obvious indications of non-original glasses. Before buying them, consult the manufacturer's website and observe the brands and distinctive signs. This information will be useful to you during the purchase.
Step 2. Look for the model number
This is a unique code around the world, regardless of how and where you made your purchase. Read the manufacturer's website to check the model number, which is usually found on the frame. The fake glasses may have a code that is not present on the manufacturer's website.
Step 3. Buy from a reputable dealer
Genuine sunglasses are typically sold at optical stores, licensed websites, and clothing stores. Those that you can find on the stalls or at street vendors are most likely fake. If the price is heavily discounted or too cheap to be true, it probably isn't. Stay away from websites that offer no return guarantee and do not provide contact information (telephone number, e-mail address, etc.).
- China is undoubtedly the queen of counterfeit productions; be very careful when buying glasses made in this country.
- If you are making an online purchase, check previous customer reviews and ratings.
- An online retailer of original products offers a guarantee of authenticity.
- The glasses should be visibly well made and convey a quality feel.
Step 4. Recognize the keywords
Terms such as "high quality," cosmetics "," replica "or" inspired by "are often used for non-original glasses. Be careful if you notice these words to describe the retailer or the glasses themselves; in addition to being counterfeit, the glasses they may break easily and offer you no UV protection.
Step 5. Follow your instincts
There is no simple and general rule to understand if sunglasses are original; use common sense and your judgment skills. Do some research about the company you're buying them from, because it's always possible to get a good deal and get some authentic glasses. If the price is very low, consider other factors before buying.
Part 2 of 3: Examine the Glasses
Step 1. Check the box
Authentic sunglasses are sold in manufacturer-supplied packaging that bears the brand name. On the bottom of the box there is a barcode accompanied by the manufacturer's information. Typically, a booklet, leaflet or certificate of guarantee and authenticity is included in the package.
Step 2. Inspect the case
Sunglasses should be delivered in a case of the same brand that bears the manufacturer's logo; it should also be in perfect condition, without any marks and with even outlines. The color and shape of the case may vary depending on the age of the model.
- All Coach glasses are provided with a cloth bearing the "CC" logo.
- Examine your glasses carefully. The right temple should have the brand name, model number and the letters "CE" inside. On the left temple you should read the model number, the color code of the lenses, the frame, as well as the caliber value; all this information should coincide with what is on the box. Also on the left temple there may be a metallic mark.
- Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses carry the wording "Made in Italy" on the right temple, in place of the model code.
Step 3. Check the lenses and nose pads
On the original glasses, the logo is often engraved in the right lens, it should be easy to identify and well defined; the width of the bridge of the frame is shown on the bridge itself or on the nose pads. Some glasses may have the branding embossed on the bridge.
Step 4. Look for signs of continuity
The brand, the font and the model number should not vary. The numerical code on the box should be identical to that shown on the frame, as well as the logo on the glasses, on the case and on the brochure should always be the same; if you notice any differences or spelling mistakes, the glasses may be fake.
Step 5. Evaluate the overall quality of the glasses
It should be high, as well as that of the case and packaging. If you feel the glasses are fragile or light, they may be counterfeit. The real and authentic ones are typically delivered in a nice box with labels and pouch included, while the fake ones might be sold in cheap cases or in a plain sachet.
It is especially important to check the quality of the product if you are buying second-hand glasses that do not come with the original packaging
Part 3 of 3: Return the Counterfeit Glasses
Step 1. Contact the seller
Let the online retailer or retailer know that the glasses are counterfeit and that you want a refund. Hopefully to meet cooperation and recover the money; if not, let them know that you plan to contact your credit card manager. By doing so, you should "encourage" him to fix the problem.
Step 2. Keep track of all correspondence
As you discuss with the retailer, document all emails, receipts, and packing slips that pertain to the purchase. If you need to get in touch with the company that manages the credit card, all of this information will prove useful; They also allow you to prove that the merchant lied about the product he sold you. You can take pictures of the glasses you bought.
If you type the model number into the manufacturer's site and don't find a match, print a copy of the page as proof
Step 3. Call the credit card manager
If you used it to pay for the glasses, you can ask for the transaction to be canceled; declares that the charge was made by mistake. It is best to proceed as soon as possible, to prevent this request from appearing suspicious in the eyes of the manager. You can find instructions for requesting cancellation on the website of the bank or company that issued the credit card. If you can't find this information, call the manager for help.
Step 4. Report the fact to the consumer association
Fill out a complaint form or go directly to an association office to report that the glasses are fake. You could make your statement stronger by combining it with a police report. The consumer association can support your case by providing you with a lawyer to take legal action against the retailer. Furthermore, the case could also be published in magazines such as Altrocunsumo and the name of the retailer could be included in the "black list" of fraudulent shopkeepers. The times for resolving a legal conflict vary widely.
Step 5. Write a review of your experience
Go to the website of the company you bought the glasses from and leave an honest review. Let people know that the product you purchased was counterfeit and don't forget how the problem was solved. Let all other buyers know if the retailer has made you difficult or has been very cooperative.
