Guide: How to Verify Authenticity
A four-step method to verify genuine lenses: check the laser engraving, watch the factory seal being opened in front of you, scan the anti-counterfeit code and confirm it shows "first query," and match all three serial numbers. Plus a 12-point pickup checklist to run through before leaving the store.
Step 1: Check the Laser Mark
Hold the lens up to a strong light at an angle. ZEISS lenses carry a tiny "Z" laser engraving near the edge. Essilor lenses have a "Crizal" fog mark (breathe on the lens to reveal it). HOYA and Nikon have their own laser marks too. Note: on some custom-made or specially treated lenses the mark may be faint — a missing mark alone doesn't prove a fake. Judge it together with the other checks.
Step 2: Check the Packaging
Lens packaging must be factory-sealed with the anti-counterfeit sticker intact. Ask to open it yourself in front of the staff. If the packaging is already opened, the seal is broken, or the label looks home-printed — refuse the lenses.
Step 3: Scan the Anti-Counterfeit Code
Scratch off the silver coating and scan the code with WeChat, or enter it on the brand's official website. The result must show "first query." If it shows previous queries, the code has been reused on counterfeit lenses.
Step 4: Match the Three Numbers
The tracking number on the packaging, the laser mark on the lens, and the serial number on the warranty card must all match. If any number differs, the lenses may have been swapped or are counterfeit.
Pickup Checklist: 12 Things to Check Before Leaving
Go through this list item by item before walking out with your new glasses. Once you leave China, adjustments and returns become very difficult.
1. Distance Vision
Cover each eye in turn and read the eye chart 5 meters away. Both eyes should see clearly.
2. Near Vision
Read your phone screen at 30 cm. Text should be sharp and clear, with no squinting.
3. No Dizziness
Walk around for 5 minutes and go up and down stairs. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, the prescription may be too strong — ask for a re-check.
4. No Distortion
Look at straight lines (door frames, floor tiles). If lines bend or warp, the astigmatism axis may be wrong — ask for a re-check.
5. Pupil Distance Alignment
Your pupils should align with the optical center of each lens. PD errors cause eye strain and headaches. Check in a mirror that your pupils sit at the center of the lenses.
6. Frame Comfort
Nose pads shouldn't pinch, temples shouldn't press behind your ears, and the frame shouldn't slide down. If anything feels off, ask the staff to adjust it right away.
7. Lens Parameter Check
Check the lens packaging sleeves: brand, refractive index, and prescription (SPH / CYL / AXIS) must match your order exactly. Keep the sleeves.
8. Lens Appearance
Inspect carefully under strong light: no scratches, bubbles, coating defects, or edge chips.
9. Brand Authenticity Verification
For brand lenses, scratch off the anti-counterfeit code and scan it. Confirm it shows "first query." If it shows multiple previous queries, the product may be counterfeit. (Only brand lenses have anti-counterfeit codes.)
10. Warranty Card
Ask for the official brand warranty card and confirm the store stamp, date, and lens serial number are all filled in.
11. Itemized Receipt
The receipt must list: frame model, lens brand / index / prescription, total price, store name, and date. This is essential evidence if you ever need to file a complaint.
12. After-Sales Commitment
Ask about and confirm the after-sales policy: "Free adjustments within 30 days; free remake if the prescription is wrong." Policies vary by store — ask for written confirmation or a note on the receipt.
9. Brand authenticity verification
Brand lenses can be verified by scratching off the anti-counterfeit code and scanning it. Confirm that it shows "First query". If it shows multiple queries, the product may be counterfeit. (Only brand lenses have anti-counterfeit codes.)