Meet our Authentication Experts
Every item sold on the site undergoes a rigorous authentication process before being sent to you. Authentication is about more than expertise, it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production. As our experts reveal...
Victoire Boyer Chammard, head of our authentication
"Authenticating an item involves delving deep into the heritage of a brand, via its craftsmanship techniques. It can occasionally be difficult dating a contemporary piece, when its stylistic features have remained so faithful to the house’s DNA over the years. For example a Gucci clutch bag from the 70s with a similar floral motif to the ones that appear in the present-day collections".
Fabrice Guéroux, watch expert
"Assessing contemporary timepieces requires a rigorous and methodical process For a collector's item, such as a Rolex Daytona from 1968 or an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak from 1972, I use careful techniques that leave absolutely no margin for error – familiarity with the heritage of famous brands and a real passion for watchmaking".
Morgane Peyrin, jewellery expert
"Checking jewellery is a meticulous process, which differs depending on whether it’s a piece from a premium brand and you have a hallmark to work with. When jewellery is unbranded, we’ll examine the metal and stones to determine whether they are consistent with the period from which the piece is believed to date. When it comes to premium branded jewellery, we take every last detail into account, from the clarity of the stones to the quality of the setting and the hallmark of the manufacturer".