How to authenticate MCM handbags / backpacks
MCM Worldwide was founded in Munich by Michael Cromer in 1976 and acquired by Sungjoo Group, a Korean fashion conglomerate, in 2005. The bags have regained popularity in recent years. We explain how you can verify the authenticity of MCM handbags and distinguish them from fakes. The same points apply to MCM backpacks.
Size and shape of MCM handbags
MCM bags are made with high quality, which means they do not collapse when placed upright, even if it's a backpack.
NOTE: An authentic MCM bag retains its shape when placed upright.
Many models are available in different sizes; check if the bag's size matches the specifications on MCM's website.
The materials of an MCM handbag
MCM uses high-quality materials for its bags – the leather or canvas should always feel very soft, supple, and luxurious. Fake MCM bags are made from inferior materials, which is usually noticeable.
A smell test is also helpful – an original MCM bag smells only of leather, vintage models also have the typical vintage leather smell, while a fake bag smells of plastic, chemicals, or glue.
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View current MCM stockThe logo and logo plate of MCM handbags
The MCM logo should be clearly visible and is followed by the registered trademark ®. The MCM lettering is centered above the two laurel branches, which extend across the entire width of the lettering.
Authentic:
Counterfeit of the inner logo (wrong font, too few laurel branches on the left):
Count the leaves in the MCM logo. There are always 9 leaves on the left and 8 leaves on the right.
Only a few bags and accessories do not have this characteristic brass plate. It is rectangular, has rounded corners, and the original MCM lettering always appears in two lines. Compare the letters of MCM, as well as the font and font size, with an original or with photos from the manufacturer's website. If the letters are too thick or too thin, or if a wrong font is used, it is not a genuine MCM bag.
The MCM plate is almost always attached with screws that match the color of the plate. Also, make sure the screws are recessed and do not protrude. On newer models, the plate may be attached with rivets instead of screws.
There should also be no chips, flakes, or cracks.
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Have your MCM bag authenticated nowThe MCM serial number of the handbag
The serial number can be found on every golden logo plate. The plate has rounded corners. Some bags may have a cobalt-colored plate depending on the color. Each plate features the MCM logo at the top center. Below it, the serial number is engraved. The serial number of a vintage bag is a simple four-digit sequence. For newer bags, it consists of a letter followed by four numbers.
The characteristic pattern of the MCM bag
Color and patterns. The logo should be clear and distinct. Fakes usually have a darker tone. Also, pay attention to the details of the patterns. The print quality of the leather or fabric should be uniform. The logo should be clear and distinct. Irregularities indicate a counterfeit bag.
The brand tag of an MCM handbag
Look for the brand tag, which is found on all modern MCM products. In 2005, the Sungjoo Group bought the luxury brand and added these tags. Since then, they have been placed inside the bags. If you see "Made in Korea" or "Made in Italy", that's a good sign, as most bags, backpacks and shoes are manufactured in these locations.
The lining of the MCM handbag
If the lining crinkles, feels stiff or plasticky, or if it is too tightly or too loosely attached to the leather, it is almost certainly an imitation. The lining of a genuine MCM bag is supple, soft, and fits perfectly – there is no "sagging" fabric.
The hardware and accessories of an MCM handbag
Designer bags have hardware that is not easily scratched, where the color does not flake off, and which is generally heavy. Especially the hardware of MCM bags gleams in a golden hue. Although some bags feature cobalt or 14-karat gold-plated hardware, it should never chip, peel, or show cracks.
The zippers of MCM handbags
Make sure the zippers are made of metal. The most common zipper brand used for MCM bags is YKK.
The stitching of the MCM handbag
As with all other designer bags, with MCM, the stitching is absolutely straight, even, and clean. With imitations, especially at the corners, you often see that the seam is frayed or crooked. Even spacing between the seams and the edges of the bag is also important.
The company label of an MCM handbag or backpack
Since 2005, this company label has been placed in all handbags and backpacks. The exception is handbags that can be worn on both sides. Most bags are manufactured in Italy or Korea.
Where does MCM produce?
MCM primarily produces in South Korea. Other production sites include Italy and Germany.
The authenticity card, care instructions, and dust bag
A genuine MCM bag always comes with a dust bag – this is simple white with a black MCM logo print. Make sure the logo is centered and not smudged or stained with ink.
You should also always receive an authenticity card and a card with care instructions. The warranty card is provided along with the care instructions in a black envelope with the MCM logo. The card includes, among other things, the item's product number.
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Get a purchase offer nowIf you are still unsure whether your MCM handbag is real, or have further questions, please feel free to contact us or purchase our MCM Authenticity Check or our digital MCM Authenticity Check.
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