These days, eyewear goes beyond just vision aid. Although it’s handy that it helps you see clearer, it can be more than that. In recent years, eyewear in the Philippines has become one of the most frequently used fashion statements to express one’s individuality, style, and even status quo.

Since people want to be seen wearing a brand that matters, fake eyewear started to circulate to give those unwilling to splurge a cheaper alternative. Know when your favorite pair of specs are faux with these identifiers: 

Labels/Logo

Designer brands have their own trademarked logo, authentic glasses should have their standard CE mark. A big red flag is when the brand/logo is misspelled or wonky, qualifying them as a counterfeit.

Lens

They should have the British Standard BS EN 1836:2005 for sufficient UV ray protection. An expensive pair of shades should be able to protect your eyes from the sun. 

Model number 

Every authentic piece of eyewear has a model number worldwide. Look for this identification number when you buy online or in-store and check it through the numbers listed on the brand’s official website. 

Price

Low prices can be tempting, but originals are priced highly for a reason. If it’s suspiciously cheap, it’s probably fake. 

Packaging 

Authentic designer glasses are matched with their own high-quality packaging/case. If it feels flimsy and the velour inside is peeling, you might have a replica in your hands. 

Accessories 

Authentic brands aren’t stingy with the accessories that go with the glasses. The paperwork, dust cloth, and even the paper bag or box should be included when you purchase them. All of these accessories should be properly brandished by their logo. Some counterfeits go as far as mimicking these accessories, but count on them to make an error up close. 

Eyewear data and tiny details

Basic info like the point of origin, model number, color code, and lens diameter should all be available for you to view in the frame you have. Not all counterfeits are able to copy these small details and if they’re missing these, that’s a clear warning the product isn’t original. 

Point of origin 

Research where your shades should be “Made In”. If it doesn’t align with where it’s supposed to be manufactured from, it’s enough to suggest it’s faux. For example, it’s labeled ‘Made In China’ but the origin of the product should be ‘Made in Italy’.

Overall quality 

Authentic eyewear should feel sturdy and smooth at the same time. It shouldn’t rattle or squeak and the joints should feel strong. Fake eyewear usually has loose screws or feels much flimsier and weak. 

It’s Time to See Things Clearly

Fake eyewear in the Philippines is rampant and can be purchased anywhere. But with wise research, you can arm yourself with the necessary information to guarantee that the item you are buying is worth its weight in gold. Don’t be fooled by online retailers selling “high quality” eyewear for dirt cheap prices. Make sure you are buying from credible sellers like Vision Express who supply their customers with nothing but the best eyewear.