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Starting from around the year 2000, Chanel began using hologram stickers with a clear tape containing a hologram security feature. These stickers also feature:
Pictured: examples of authentic Chanel date codes. Note how they combine several unique identification and safety features: iridescent speckles, CC logos and 'X' scores on the plastic.
Another useful marker to authenticate a Chanel bag is to assess the hardware, which will exhibit several distinctive features. The metal is either purely gold-plated or silver-plated and does not peel off easily. The color of the hardware is consistent everywhere.
In the Chanel bag authentication process, the date code plays a crucial part. It serves as the bag's unique identifier , allowing you to determine the year of production.
Open the flap and inspect the back of the CC lock plate. If you confirmed that the bag is vintage based on the serial number, you shouldn’t be surprised to find flathead screws on the lock plate.
Eight digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos."X" cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed fake vs real Chanel bag without damage. "CHANEL" appears on rightright side of the sticker. Dark line appears on left side of sticker. Gold speckles appear throughout sticker.
The CC logo on the interior of a Double Flap bag is precisely 9mm wide and positioned 1.5 cm above the Chanel stamping, with the stitching color matching the interior of the bag.
There are two types of leather that Chanel uses, and it is important to be aware of the differences between them in order to facilitate the authentication process.
Bags that are marked with the phrase "Made in Paris" should be avoided because they could be fakes. Genuine bags are those that are marked with the phrases "Made in France" or "Made in Italy." Additionally, you should be wary of bags that have flat or puffy quilts and leather of low quality.
The diamond quilts on an authentic Chanel bag should perfectly align throughout the bag, even around pockets and seams, forming complete or half diamonds centered on the pattern.
Eight 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.
However, these serial number stickers can detach from vintage Chanel bags upon usage. Similarly, authentication cards can sometimes be misplaced too. So, their absence does not mean your bag is necessarily fake.
Sotheby’s provides exclusive access to a curated selection of Chanel bags from its long established global network of sellers. As a leading marketplace, Sotheby's offers pristine Chanel bags in the most coveted colors and sizes, as well as Limited Edition Chanel pieces.