Vintage Eyewear Authenticity Guarantee

Genuine Vintage Eyewear. No Reproductions. No Exceptions. 

At Retro Spectacle, we specialise in original vintage eyewear. 
Every frame we sell is 100% authentic, sourced and verified with care. We do not list replica frames - ever.

If it's listed on Retro Spectacle, it's the real thing. 

How We Authenticate Vintage Eyewear

Vintage eyewear authentication requires expertise, not guesswork. Each frame is individually assessed before being made available for sale. I'm a registered optician first and a retailer second. In my optics career spanning 20 years to date I've purchased and handled tens of thousands of frames. From Brands like Ray-Ban, Gucci, Prada, Persol, Cartier, Dior, Tom Ford, Versace, Chanel and many others.

🔍  Frame & Construction Inspection

We examine:

  • Original manufacturer markings and engravings 
  • Frame materials (acetate, metal alloys, hinges)
  • Construction methods consistent with the period
  • Nose bridge, hinge design and finishing details

Many of these features are impossible to accurately replicate today. 

📅  Era & Brand Verification 

We cross-reference each frame against:

  • Brand logo changes over time
  • Design characteristics specific to certain decades/brands
  • Known production techniques used during the frame's era

This ensure the frame aligns with both the frame and the time period it's attributed to. 

Original vs Reissue Identification

Some eyewear brands release modern reissues of classic designs, such as the Cazal Legends collection. We actively differentiate between:

  • Original vintage frames
  • Latter reissues or Cazal genuine reproductions

Only original period frames are sold unless clearly stated otherwise. 

Condition & Honest Representation

Vintage eyewear has history - and we respect that.

  • Any signs of age or wear are clearly disclosed
  • Product images show the exact frames you will receive
  • No stock photos or misleading edits

Wear does not reduce authenticity, it confirms it.

Lenses & Restoration

  • Frames may be fitted with new lenses for modern wearability
  • Any restoration or adjustments are disclosed
  • Original frame structure and integrity are always preserved

Certificates of Authenticity

Due to the age and nature of vintage eyewear, official certificates are rarely available. Instead authenticity is guaranteed through expert inspection, brand knowledge and trusted sourcing.

Where original packaging or documentation exists, it is included and clearly noted.

Our Authenticity Promise

We stand fully behind every frame we sell.

If you believe an item purchased from Retro Spectacle is not authentic:

  • Contact us directly
  • We will review the item in good faith
  • If authenticity cannot be verified, you will receive a full refund in line with out returns policy. 

Simple. Fair. Transparent.

Authenticity FAQs

Are these frames original vintage or modern reproductions?

All frames are original vintage unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Do vintage frames show sign of age?

Some frames can show minor wear, and is part of the frames character. However many of our frames are new unused vintage stock, and we accurately describe each frame. 

Are lenses original?

Lenses may be replaced for usability or prescription purposes. The frame itself remains original.

What if I have a questions about a specific frame?

We're happy to provide additional details or photos on request.

Still Unsure?

We believe trust is built through clarity. If you'd like more information about any frame, please contact us - before or after purchase.

Contact Retro Spectacle