Protecting You Against Counterfeit Vintage Sunglasses & Fraud Since 1998
When you buy vintage sunglasses that counterfeiters know are worth more than new models being produced today you need a trusted source. Hundreds of people write for help each year after having been cheated on eBay, Etsy, Mercari, and other websites by counterfeits, reproductions, cheap replacement lenses, or deceptive practices lying about, omitting or downplaying serious condition issues. Sellers casually mention "minor" lens scratches from "typical" or "normal" wear that miraculously "can't be seen when wearing", "aren't noticeable", or that don't "obstruct" or "impair" vision. They use meaningless numeric rating scales for condition that won't match your own, and they use vague and imprecise condition terms to get high prices for junk and prevent refunds. See some real examples of how auction sellers through lies, deception and ignorance mislead and defraud buyers, and read a message from our founder.
If you buy elsewhere don't expect us to authenticate or comment in any way. Research shows that over 35% of all branded vintage designer sunglasses being sold in online auctions are fakes, reproductions, or have non original lenses or parts. Counterfeiters try to buy one authentic vintage pair and then copy it - often including stickers, tags, boxes, and warranties. Learning how to identify fake and counterfeit sunglasses requires expertise and can be impossible to do from pictures alone. eBay and Etsy both have multiple vintage sunglasses sellers or "stores" that are overtly selling counterfeits and reproductions, and the companies lack the expertise or perhaps a will to police it. In rare cases when you can escalate a claim you'll talk to the website's offshore call center and a clueless third party will be the arbiter of often ugly back and forth accusations and conflicting claims of truthfulness between you and the seller. Meanwhile, the seller has your money and you have worthless sunglasses, often without even basic UV protection so you can really harm your eyes as well.
In the past most of the fakes originated in Malaysia and China, but lately the Malaysians and Chinese are selling their fakes through Japanese eBay sellers to gain more trust with US and European buyers. They're selling fakes of vintage Oakleys, Versaces, Ray-Bans, Armanis, Revos, and more, and people are getting cheated and don't even know it. Some sellers are de facto criminals but counterfeits are also sold unknowingly by regular people who had purchased fakes and then resell them. That's how counterfeit sunglasses propagate through the marketplace, with even honest sellers who just don't know anything confidently assert their sunglasses are "100% authentic".
Now clarity has gotten worse with seller AI software which replaces any semblance of a clear description of an item and its condition with meaningless flowery nonsense like "These sunglasses are perfect for those who want to add a touch of vintage to their wardrobe. They are ideal for any occasion and will surely turn heads. Don't miss out on the chance to own a piece of history. Whether you're heading to the beach or driving down the highway, these sunglasses will keep you looking sharp and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own a pair of these high-quality sunglasses." If you make a purchase based on meaningless language like this you're almost certain to get a worthless piece of garbage or a fake.
As the world's largest retailer of authentic vintage sunglasses since 1998 the Vintage Sunglasses Shop has an unparalleled repurtation for excellence, offers returns and refunds for any reason within 7 days of receipt, and has the most extensive knowledge in the world to protect you from fakes and reproductions. We continue to serve our customers around the world and protect their investments - and their eyes - while providing the world's largest selection of rare and authentic vintage designer sunglasses 1930s through the 1990s.
You Can Trust The Vintage Sunglasses Shop
The Vintage Sunglasses Shop is the world's largest retailer of authentic vintage designer sunglasses in operation since 1998. We are here to protect your investment - and your eyes; read about our vetting process and our condition & authenticity guarantee. If you are ever displeased with anything you buy here, you can return it for a full refund - no questions asked.
Tell your friends about us on Facebook or Twitter, then enter promo code 444971 at checkout to save 10% on your entire order plus always free shipping in the US and subsidized express shipping worldwide.
We buy finer vintage designer sunglasses that meet our standards; learn how to sell your vintage sunglasses at good prices with no fees, hassles, or uncertainties.
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