How to Authenticate Your Chanel Bag:Focus on the Metal Plate
In our previous discussion on Chanel serial numbers,the metal plate was just introduced as a new element for authenticity verification.After thousands of transactions involving second-hand Chanel bags,we have gained a deeper understanding of this feature.Today,examining the metal plate on a Chanel bag has become a crucial step in verifying its authenticity.Below is the authentication process we have experienced,with a special focus on the metal plate.
Step 1:Inspect the Stitching
First,carefully examine the stitching on the bag.Genuine Chanel bags have even,straight stitches with no loose threads or irregular spacing.The stitches should be consistent and tight,maintaining the same neatness both on the exterior and interior.This is a direct reflection of Chanel's exquisite craftsmanship.
Step 2:Feel the Material
Next,assess the material of the bag.Chanel's leather should feel soft and luxurious,not stiff or plastic-like.For quilting bags,the diamond pattern should be symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing,with plump quilting that maintains its shape rather than being flat or uneven.Calfskin bags should be buttery smooth,while caviar leather should have a consistent pebble texture.If it's a fabric bag,the material should be tightly woven and feel sturdy and durable.
Step 3:Check the Hardware and Logo
Then,inspect the hardware of the bag.Zippers,buttons,and other metal components should all bear the CHANEL or CC logo.These logos,whether embossed,raised,or engraved,should be clearly visible with clean,sharp edges.The embossed logo on the leather should be straight and evenly pressed,another hallmark of Chanel's quality.
Step 4:Locate the Serial Number Plate
Finally,and most importantly,locate the serial number plate inside the bag.Chanel bags produced after Spring/Summer 2021 should come with a metal plate(specific details and implementation may vary by model and production date).We refer to this as the"serial number plate."This rectangular metal plate(approximately 1.2 inches wide)is engraved with the Chanel CC logo and an 8-character alphanumeric code.The color of the serial number plate should match the metal hardware of the rest of the bag.For example,a Chanel Classic Flap Bag with gold hardware should have a gold metal plate inside.
More on the Metal Serial Number Plate
With advancements in technology,the luxury market is adopting new innovations to combat counterfeiting.In 2021,Chanel replaced all stickers and authenticity cards with metal plates embedded with microchips,which is the new form of the serial number.These metal plaques contain a small NFC(Near Field Communication)chip,a key component of blockchain technology.Blockchain is an information storage system where data is virtually impossible to edit or tamper with.This data is confidential and can only be accessed by Chanel employees using proprietary scanning devices.
It is important to emphasize that we do not rely solely on the serial number plate to determine the authenticity of a bag.Counterfeiters may attempt to mimic the Chanel logo on the metal plate,but they cannot replicate the NFC technology that matches Chanel's.Fake bags may lack the metal plate altogether or have obvious errors on the markings.Therefore,when authenticating a Chanel bag,be sure to consider multiple aspects to ensure that your choice is genuine.