How Can You Tell How Old a Louis Vuitton Bag Is?

Louis Vuitton is a luxury brand that has been around for over 160 years. Over time, the brand has undergone various changes in design and style.

If you are looking to purchase a pre-owned Louis Vuitton bag, it is essential to know how old the bag is to determine its value. In this article, we will explore how you can tell how old a Louis Vuitton bag is.

Look at the Date Code

One of the most reliable ways to determine the age of a Louis Vuitton bag is by looking at the date code. Since 1980, all Louis Vuitton bags come with a date code stamped on a leather tag inside the bag. The date code consists of four letters and numbers which represent the factory location and production date.

  • The first two letters indicate the factory location where the bag was produced.
  • The first and third numbers represent the week of production.
  • The second and fourth numbers represent the year of production.

For example, if your Louis Vuitton bag has a date code that reads FL5111, it means that it was produced in France (FL) in the 51st week of 2011.

Check for Vintage Features

If your Louis Vuitton bag does not have a date code or if you suspect that it may be older than 1980, there are some vintage features to look out for.

  • Louis Vuitton bags made before 1980 did not have date codes.
  • Early Louis Vuitton bags were made with brass hardware while newer bags use gold-tone hardware.
  • The stitching on vintage bags may be uneven or irregular due to being handmade.

Research the Bag

Another way to determine the age of a Louis Vuitton bag is to research the bag’s design and style. Louis Vuitton has produced many different bags over the years, and each design has a specific timeline. If you can identify the name of your bag or its design features, you can research when it was produced.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several ways to tell how old a Louis Vuitton bag is. The most reliable method is by looking at the date code, which has been used since 1980.

If your bag does not have a date code or if you suspect that it may be older than 1980, there are some vintage features to look out for. You can also research your bag’s design and style to determine its age. By using these methods, you can ensure that you are purchasing an authentic Louis Vuitton bag at its appropriate value.