Does the Louis Vuitton IC chip prove authenticity? How to spot fakes by looking at the changes in specifications by year, serial numbers, engravings, metal fittings, logos, and stitching. How to determine authenticity and how to buy.

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Louis Vuitton has changed the specifications of serial numbers with the introduction of IC chips, and more and more people are having trouble determining the authenticity of second-hand items.

Many people may be worried about whether a product is genuine if it has an IC chip or whether it is fake if it does not have a serial number.

In this article, we will clearly explain how the Louis Vuitton IC chip works, the differences between different model years , trends in counterfeits before and after its introduction , the authenticity checking procedures from 2021 onwards, and common misconceptions .

By the time you finish reading, you will be able to make confident purchasing and selling decisions without being swayed by IC chips.

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Understanding what a Louis Vuitton IC chip is for beginners

When trying to check the authenticity of a Louis Vuitton item, you will often come across the terms "IC chip" and "serial number."

However, if you make a judgment without properly understanding how these mechanisms work, you may end up doubting the genuine article or, conversely, overlooking a fake .

In this chapter, we will explain for beginners what the Louis Vuitton IC chip means , and explain the difference between it and the serial number, as well as points to note.

Let's learn the basic knowledge to calmly determine authenticity without being swayed by whether or not an IC chip is present.

The IC chip is a system for digitally managing serial numbers.

IC chip = data chip for management purposes .
It is embedded inside the product and digitally manages serial numbers and other information.

This is different from the previous system that judged by looking at the engraving.
The IC chip is used to make management more efficient for the brand .

Key Takeaways
The presence of an IC chip alone does not guarantee authenticity.

The difference between a serial number and an IC chip

serial number
- Alphanumeric characters engraved on the inside
・You can read the country of manufacture and the date of manufacture.
・Can be confirmed visually

IC chip
- Embedded inside the product
・Cannot be seen with the naked eye
・Depending on the model year, the engraving may not exist from the beginning.

Therefore,
No markings does not necessarily mean it's a fake.

Why authenticity determination is not complete even with an IC chip

An IC chip cannot tell you whether it is well made or not .

What we look at to determine authenticity is:

・Logo letter spacing
・Position and depth of engraving
・Metal fittings texture
・Careful sewing

In recent years, counterfeits with IC chips have also been circulating.
Therefore, the IC chip is only one of the factors to consider.

conclusion
Combining an IC chip with a visual check makes it easier to prevent mistakes.

The history of Louis Vuitton IC chips and how their specifications have changed over the years

Louis Vuitton's IC chips were not suddenly introduced at a certain point in time, but rather the specifications have changed gradually depending on the model year.

Therefore, if you judge whether something is genuine or fake based solely on whether or not it has an engraving or serial number, you are likely to reach an incorrect conclusion.

In this chapter, we will summarize the differences before and after the introduction of IC chips , as well as the changes in management methods around 2021 , and provide a clear explanation of the correct way to view each model year.

By understanding the historical background, you will be able to calmly determine authenticity without being misled by superficial information.

Before the introduction of IC chips, the markings and serial numbers were the deciding factors.

Before the introduction of IC chips, the engraved serial number (manufacturing number) on Louis Vuitton products was a major clue to determining authenticity.
This stamp has rules that indicate the country and time of production, and has been used as an important factor in determining whether an item is genuine or fake.

Therefore, at that time
"Is there an engraving?"
Is the order of the letters correct?
These were the main points that were checked.
However, on older models and some products, the engraving can be difficult to read, and it can be dangerous to judge based solely on the presence or absence of an engraving.

Serial number management changed around 2021

Around 2021, Louis Vuitton made major changes to the way it manages serial numbers .
The serial number that was previously engraved has been replaced by a digitally managed IC chip.

Due to this influence,

・Serial number markings are missing
The previous rules no longer apply
More and more people are feeling this way.

However, this is due to a change in the specifications.
Just because there is no marking does not mean you should immediately assume it is a fake.
By taking the model year into consideration, you can avoid unnecessary worries.

Please note that the presence or absence of an IC chip varies depending on the model year.

Not all Louis Vuitton products were fitted with IC chips at the same time.
Depending on the model and manufacturing date, some products have IC chips and some do not .

Therefore,

・IC chip not found
・The markings cannot be confirmed
However, this does not necessarily mean that it is a fake.

It's not just the year that's important,
We comprehensively check the logo design, the texture of the metal fittings, the stitching finish, etc.
By understanding the model year and looking at multiple points, you will be less likely to make mistakes when purchasing or getting an appraisal.

Learn about the changes in counterfeit trends before and after the introduction of IC chips

The way fake Louis Vuitton products are made and displayed has changed since the introduction of IC chips .

In the past, the presence or absence of a serial number or engraving was the deciding factor, but now that more and more products have IC chips, it has become difficult to judge by appearance alone.

In this chapter, we will summarize how counterfeit trends have changed before and after the introduction of IC chips, and clearly explain why it cannot be said with certainty that "counterfeits are safe just because they have IC chips." Knowing these trends will make it easier to avoid suspicious products in advance.

Common characteristics of counterfeit goods before the introduction of IC chips

Common fake patterns

There is a serial number
・But the spacing and arrangement of characters are unnatural.
・Does not conform to the rules for serial numbers

Visual discomfort

・Lightweight metal fittings
・Logo engraving is shallow
・Sloppy stitching

　 A notable feature was that many of the types made people think, ``If it has an engraving, it's genuine.' '

New counterfeit trends that have increased since the introduction of IC chips

This type has been increasing recently

・IC chip included
・Reacts on your smartphone
・But it's poorly made

Easy-to-catch points

・Safe because it has an IC chip
・The description says "IC chip confirmed."

　 Counterfeit products that mislead people into trusting IC chips are on the rise.

Why IC chips aren't safe

What an IC chip can tell you

・Manufacturing number management
・Information managed by the brand

What IC chips cannot tell you

・Logo accuracy
・Quality of metal fittings
・Careful sewing

　To determine whether it is genuine or fake, it is essential to check the appearance.
The IC chip is just one of the factors to consider.

Authentication check procedure for Louis Vuitton bags from 2021 onwards, even for beginners

Since 2021, the introduction of IC chips has significantly changed the way authenticity is viewed for Louis Vuitton.

Therefore, if you judge based solely on whether there is an IC chip or whether you can find a serial number, you are more likely to make a mistake.

In this chapter, we will organize the steps for checking authenticity by checking the logo, engraving, metal fittings, and stitching without relying on IC chips, in an order that is easy for even beginners to follow.

By following the steps, you will be able to spot suspicious products more easily and avoid mistakes when purchasing or getting an appraisal.

Do not judge solely on the presence or absence of an IC chip

Conclusion: Authenticity cannot be determined by the IC chip alone.

・IC chip = for managing serial numbers
・No guarantee of authenticity

Common mistakes
There is an IC chip → People assume it is genuine

First, we will not judge based on the IC chip, but will proceed to an external check.

Check for any irregularities in the logo and engraving

The first thing to look at

-Is the spacing between letters in the logo uniform?
・Is the marking position correct?
・Are the characters not blurred?

Examples where discomfort is likely to occur

The text is too crowded
The engraving is shallow and blurred

The logo and engraving are areas where even beginners can easily notice the difference.

Check the texture of the metal fittings and the accuracy of the engraving

Genuine Features

・It has weight
・Smooth surface
・Clear engraving

Characteristics of counterfeits

·light
The color is cheap
The engraving is ruined

Appearance and how it feels in your hand are also factors to consider.

The final decision is made based on the stitching and finishing.

Genuine

The stitching is evenly spaced
・Neat thread processing

fake

The seams are crooked
The spacing is variable

If you experience multiple discomforts at the same time, be careful.
If you are unsure, consult a specialist rather than trying to make a self-diagnosis.

Important basic checkpoints for determining the authenticity of Louis Vuitton

When determining authenticity, there is more to look at than just the IC chip and serial number.

The differences between genuine and fake items are always in the details , such as the naturalness of the engraving, the balance of the logo, the texture of the metal fittings, and the finish of the stitching .

In this chapter, we will carefully select and organize basic checkpoints that even beginners can check in order.

By focusing on these key points, you can avoid suspicious products at an early stage and avoid hesitation when purchasing or getting an appraisal.

Points to check with the engraving and serial number

The first thing I look at is "naturalness" rather than "content."

・Is the position of the engraving unnaturally misaligned?
・Are the characters not blurred?
・The serial numbers are arranged in a random order.

Caution Signs
・Engravings that look like they were forced into place
-Various letter heights and thicknesses

Even if there is a serial number, I will be wary if something seems strange .

Brand logo letter spacing and engraving accuracy

The logo is a point that is hard to hide.

Is the character spacing uniform?
・Is the shape of the O or V correct?
・Is the marking too shallow?

Common characteristics of counterfeits
The text is too crowded
The outline is blurred

If the logo seems odd, I'll be suspicious of everything else.

The difference between genuine and fake items is easily seen in the metal fittings

The difference in metal fittings is apparent the moment you touch them.

Genuine
・It has a solid weight
・Smooth surface
・Clear engraving

fake
·light
The color looks cheap
The engraving is ruined

Not only appearance but also texture is a factor to consider.

The difference in quality can be seen in the stitching

Finally, check the overall finish.

Genuine
The stitching is evenly spaced
・Neat thread processing

fake
The seams are crooked
- Irregular spacing

If you experience multiple small discomforts at the same time, you should be careful .

Common misconceptions about IC chip authenticity

It's a common pitfall to assume that something is okay just by looking at the IC chip or serial number .

In fact, this assumption is the main reason why people end up buying counterfeit goods.

In this chapter, we will explain why you cannot be sure even if the IC chip can be read, the points where you can easily be misled by the serial number, and the dangers of trusting the descriptions on flea market apps at face value.

By clearing up any misconceptions beforehand, you will be less likely to make mistakes when purchasing or getting an appraisal.

The misconception that if the IC chip can be read, it is genuine

❌ IC chip responds = genuine
⭕ There are also counterfeits that react

▶ IC chips do not guarantee quality
▶ Logos, engravings, metal fittings, and stitching must be checked separately

The mistaken belief that a product is genuine based solely on its IC chip or serial number is not limited to Louis Vuitton.

Even with Moncler, there are many misunderstandings regarding authenticity, and it is necessary to check multiple points such as the logo, tag, stitching, and QR code .

→ Click here for a detailed explanation of how to check the authenticity of Moncler products. (Link)

The belief that if there is no serial number, it is a fake

❌ No serial number = fake
⭕ No marking is normal from 2021 onwards

▶ The criteria for judgment is whether the model year and specifications match.
▶ Don't jump to conclusions based solely on the presence or absence of serial numbers

The danger of believing too much in marketplace app descriptions

❌ Trust "Genuine Product" and "IC Chip Verified"
⭕ Only see the contents of the photo

▶ Must see
・Logo letter spacing
・Metal fittings texture
・How to align the stitching

conclusion

✅ Don't just look at the IC chip
✅ Don't just watch the serial
✅ Don't believe the description

👉 Look at the construction. Judge as a whole.

Guidelines for buying and selling Louis Vuitton with confidence

Even if you know the IC chip and serial number, that alone does not mean you can buy or sell Louis Vuitton with confidence.

What's really important is the act of buying, what to keep, and where to get an appraisal .

Here, we will summarize only the criteria that even beginners should put into practice right now to avoid making mistakes and avoid trouble when purchasing or losses when buying.

When purchasing, keep the accessories and purchase history

✔ Receipt, warranty card, and box are all included
✔ Can explain where and when the item was purchased

→ This serves as proof of authenticity and makes it less likely that the purchase price will drop.
→ There are many situations where "history" is more trusted than an IC chip.

Choose a reliable seller rather than a private seller

✔ Has a physical store
✔ Authenticity guarantee and return policy are clearly stated

→More than low price, it's important that responsibility is clearly defined.

→ At flea markets it is up to you to decide, but at stores it is up to you to decide.

Choose a store that checks more than just the IC chip when making a purchase appraisal

✔ Check out the logo, engraving, metal fittings, and stitching
✔ Don't draw conclusions based on IC chips alone

→ The more discerning the store is, the more stable the appraisal value will be.
→ Be careful when getting an appraisal that only checks the IC chip.

summary

Louis Vuitton's IC chip is a convenient mechanism, but it alone cannot determine whether the item is genuine.

It is important to check the entire construction, including the engravings, serial number, logo, metal fittings, and stitching, rather than relying on the presence or absence of a serial number or IC chip .
Especially since 2021, there has been a common misconception that "if the IC chip can be read, it is genuine," and counterfeit products with IC chips also exist.

By keeping track of accessories and purchase history and choosing a reliable seller or appraisal source, you can more easily avoid mistakes when purchasing or losses when selling.