7 Ways to Determine Authentic Sunglasses

When it comes to purchasing sunglasses, it’s crucial to ensure that they are genuine. Counterfeit sunnies may not only fail to provide adequate protection for your eyes but can also pose various risks to your eye health.

To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of seven key factors to consider when determining the authenticity of sunglasses and lenses. By familiarizing yourself with these factors, you can confidently purchase sunnies that offer superior durability, and protection.

Fake vs Original Sunglasses: How to Spot the Difference

Choosing genuine sunglasses is essential for several reasons.

Firstly, authentic sunnies provide superior lenses that offer optimal protection against harmful UV rays, safeguarding your eyes from potential damage. The lenses in cheap or fake sunglasses often lack proper UV protection, putting your eyes at risk.

Secondly, genuine sunglasses are crafted with premium materials and superior construction, ensuring their durability and longevity. By investing in the real thing, you support ethical business practices and help combat the production and distribution of counterfeit goods.

Ultimately, choosing genuine sunglasses not only protects your eyes but also upholds the integrity of the eyewear industry, ensuring you receive a product that is worth your hard-earned money.

How to Determine Authentic Sunglasses?

Spotting a fake pair just takes paying attention to the details. If you are planning to purchase or already purchased sunnies that you suspect may not be real, check out the following features.

1. Branding 

One of the primary indicators of genuine glasses is branding. Genuine sunglasses, such as those from American Optical, prominently display their logo, brand name, and other identifiable marks on their frames, lenses, and cases.

Counterfeit or fake sunglasses often attempt to mimic these branding elements but may fall short in terms of accuracy.

Carefully examine the logo, font, and placement of the branding elements on designer sunglasses. Also check that the model number and frame size is consistent with the brand’s website or catalog.

Additionally, genuine frames often come with accompanying documentation, such as care guides or warranties, further reinforcing their legitimacy.

2. Packaging

This can be an easy way to spot a fake. Genuine sunglasses are typically accompanied by well-designed packaging. This should include details such as the brand name, logo, and product information.

Counterfeit pairs may have a case that appears similar but lacks attention to detail. Look for signs of subpar printing, misspellings, or inconsistencies in model number, frame size measurements, color and design.

Genuine designer eyewear may also include accessories like branded microfiber cleaning cloths, protective cases, and product literature.

3. Lens Quality and Durability

The clarity and durability of lenses are essential factors in determining the authenticity of sunglasses.

A genuine pair of sunglasses, like those from American Optical, utilizes lenses made from premium materials that offer excellent optical clarity and UV protection. American Optical lenses carry the etched AO logo on the left lens, and if they are polarized, that is etched on the right lens. AO offers glass and nylon lenses for the best clarity.

Genuine lenses often feature precise tinting, consistent color, and scratch-resistant coatings. To assess the caliber of lenses, examine them under different lighting conditions, double check for any distortions or imperfections, and verify the presence of a UV protection label or etching.

4. Frame Materials and Construction

A durable pair of frames with proper construction is a crucial indicator of authenticity.

Designer brands prioritize the use of durable materials such as acetate and precious metals. These materials not only ensure longevity but also provide a comfortable fit.

Fake sunnies may employ inferior materials that can break easily or cause discomfort. Inspect the frames and lenses for sturdy construction, smooth finishes, and precise alignment.

Genuine or designer pairs often exhibit meticulous attention to detail in terms of design, symmetry, and overall craftsmanship.

5. Hinges, Screws, and Nose Pads

The details in hinges, screws, and nose pads can reveal a lot about the authenticity of sunglasses.

A genuine pair features premium hardware with well-functioning hinges that allow smooth opening and closing without any squeaks or resistance. Genuine eyewear also use properly tightened screws that do not feel loose or wobbly and allow the frames to close effortlessly.

Nose pads in designer pairs are often made from soft and comfortable materials that provide a secure fit without causing irritation.

In contrast, counterfeit sunnies may have hinges that feel flimsy, screws loose or screws that are poorly fitted, or nose pads that are uncomfortable or substandard or of poor quality themselves.

6. Price Point Considerations

Pricing or cost can be a valuable indicator of imitations when determining the authenticity of sunnies. While it’s tempting to purchase discounted sunnies, especially from unauthorized retailers or online marketplaces, it’s essential to exercise caution.

Significant price disparities compared to the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) can be a red flag. Unrealistically low prices may indicate counterfeit products.

When purchasing eyewear, especially from reputable brands like American Optical, opt for authorized sellers and be mindful of deals that seem too good to be true.

7. Attention to Detail

Authentic shades often showcase a high level of attention to detail, which sets them apart from counterfeit counterparts.

Look for small yet significant details such as precise engravings, consistent coloration, and clean finishing. Genuine shades from reputable brands invest time and effort into ensuring every aspect of the product meets their quality standards.

By paying attention to these details, you can distinguish the real thing from counterfeit alternatives.

Why Does Choosing Authentic American Optical Sunglasses Matter?

In conclusion, selecting authentic sunnies is paramount to protect your eyes and invest in a quality product.

Genuine shades, like the ones offered by American Optical, provide superior lens quality, durability, and UV protection. By considering factors such as branding, lens quality, materials, hardware, pricing, and attention to detail, you can confidently determine the authenticity of sunglasses.

Contact us if you have any questions or doubts about the authenticity of your AO sunglasses.