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Learning how to tell if a Chanel bag is real has become both art and science. Today’s most respected dealers do not rely on their experience alone to determine a Chanel bag’s authenticity. They also utilize technology to better assess each bag. Yet, many authentication apps have come along that are far less reliable than they claim.
Note that over time, serial number stickers may become detached from handbags. Authentication cards also often become lost. Therefore, Chanel handbags missing these items may still be authentic. Find out more about this iconic brand in our Chanel Information Guide.
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If you looked everywhere inside the bag and still find no serial number, it's not the end of the world! Remember, these are stickers that are constantly rubbing against the bag's contents, and they can fall off and fade with use. It could also be a vintage authentic Chanel crafted prior to 1986.
A vital key to authenticating a Chanel bag is the precision of the iconic quilting. If you want to know how to tell if a Chanel bag is real, check the diamond pattern. The diamond pattern quilting across the front of the bag should be perfectly complete.
Understanding the anatomy of an authentic Chanel code is essential to make a proper assessment. Genuine Chanel date codes are usually seven or eight digits long, depending upon the year. (A few are six digits long, as we’ll discuss.
It may not look like it, but the CC lock hides so many interesting details. In an actual Chanel bag, the ‘C’s overlap perfectly, maintaining equal width.
Handles/Strap: Chanel invented a new style of shoulder strap inspired by men’s military satchels, who wore them across their chest. The gold-linking all metal chain was light yet strong, wearable on the shoulder or across the chest, so that a woman’s hands could remain free.
Count the number of digits; a nove-digit serial code is a dead giveaway of a fake. These date codes come with matching authentication cards.
Seven digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos."X" cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed without damage. "CHANEL" appears on rightright side of the sticker. Dark line appears on left side of sticker. Gold speckles appear throughout sticker.
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A major part of how to authenticate a Chanel bag is understanding the materials used. Chanel bags are crafted from the finest leathers and textiles, such as lambskin and caviar leather.
The Chanel serial codes were printed on plastic stickers that were then affixed to a location inside the bag that varied with the bag style and year it was produced. Like everything Chanel makes, genuine stickers look professional. If your bag has a cheap-looking date sticker with blurry or uneven text, that would be a fake. If the sticker is missing, it may still be a genuine Chanel; you just won’t be able to authenticate it by the date code.