If you’re someone who takes their fashion seriously, then you must have heard of Chanel. One of the most iconic and revered fashion brands in the world, Chanel is known for its timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship.
And when it comes to Chanel bags, they are undoubtedly one of the most coveted accessories out there. But with so many knockoffs flooding the market, it’s essential to know how to differentiate between a genuine Chanel bag and a fake one. One way to do this is by checking if your Chanel bag has a serial number.
What is a Serial Number?
A serial number is a unique code that identifies each Chanel bag. These numbers not only help in distinguishing between real and fake bags but also assist with tracking the production date of the bag. Every authentic Chanel bag has a serial number stamped on its interior lining.
Where is the Serial Number Located?
The location of the serial number varies depending on the age and type of the bag. In general, however, you can expect to find it inside the bag’s interior pocket or on a leather tab sewn into its lining.
How to Read a Chanel Serial Number?
Chanel uses an intricate system for assigning serial numbers to its bags that can be confusing for first-time buyers. However, once you get familiarized with it, it becomes relatively easy to interpret.
Chanel serial numbers are composed of 6-7 digits that are either printed directly onto the lining or embossed on a leather tab sewn into it. The first two digits represent the year in which the bag was made; for example, if your bag’s serial number starts with “13,” it means that your bag was produced in 2013.
The third digit indicates which collection your bag belongs to:
– For classic flaps and reissues: 0 stands for classic collection; 1 stands for cruise collection; and 2 stands for pre-fall collection.
– For seasonal bags: the third digit corresponds to the year in which the bag was released (e.g., 4 for 2014, 5 for 2015, and so on).
The remaining digits are used by Chanel’s manufacturing facilities to track production and inventory.
What if My Bag Doesn’t Have a Serial Number?
It’s rare, but some vintage Chanel bags may not have serial numbers. This is because Chanel didn’t start using serial numbers until the mid-1980s.
If you have a vintage bag without a serial number, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s fake. However, it’s always good to get your bag authenticated by an expert.
In Conclusion
To sum up, every authentic Chanel bag should have a serial number stamped on its interior lining. By checking the serial number of your bag, you can determine whether it’s genuine or not. Remember to use an expert’s opinion when buying vintage bags without serial numbers to ensure their authenticity.