Make sure the serial number on the front of the label (if there's one), matches the serial number on the backside of the label. The two rows of numbers on the back of the tab matches the leather batch number as well as the style number. Here's an extra tip for you to authenticate a Balenciaga. Serial Number: 21XXXXXX Style of Numbers: 0’s have strikethroughs. 1’s have small serifs (feet). Style of Serial Number Sticker: Eight digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos.”X” cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed without damage. “CHANEL” appears on right side of the sticker.

The Balenciaga City has always been my dream bag, especially the black one with brass hardware. (I prefer everything to be as black as possible). BUT the black wasn't on sale from NBF, so I grabbed the anthracite instead hoping it would be 'black enough'.

WHERE

NewBagFactory (newbagfactory@hotmail.com)

PHOTOS

PSP | Mine |Auth

PRICE

I paid $119 including shipping. NBF had a number of 'soiled' bags that they were selling at a discount (I believe regular price is ~ $219).

SHIPPING

7/25: Paid.

7/30: Received tracking number with EMS.

8/23: Attempted delivery.

8/25-ish: I picked up the bag from the post office.

QUALITY: 8.5/10

Keep in mind I got this bag at a discount, and knew that there might be some issues with it. The only thing I can find is that the bottom left corner is dented. I won't subtract a point for this because it was exactly what I ordered; a cheaper bag with minor issues.

PROS:

• The leather is soft, as are the tassels. Everything seems very well made.

• Hardware seems solid, placed correctly, evenly colored, no scratches.

• No loose stitches.

• Seems like it can take a beating and then some, I've already been loading it with stuff, leaving it on the ground at cafes, in the bottom of a trunk of a car.

CONS:

• -0.5 point - smell. I've used this bag a couple of times now and I can't get over the smell. I can't explain it, and it isn't necessarily a foul smell, just a very strong nauseating one. I am hoping this will wear off with use.

• -1 point; zippers. They aren't smooth running and it takes away from that luxe feeling of a quality item. I am hoping they will get better with time (that's a thing right?)

ACCURACY: 9/10

PROS:

• Lampo zippers.

• I am sure this color or something very similar was once made in the City (they've made every color under the sun so I'd not worry about any color to be honest).

• Black stitching on the serial number tag.

• Correct hardware;

  • Soldered o-rings on the straps.

  • Rounded bales.

• Notches in the rivets of the handles.

• BALENCIAGA.PARIS on the serial number tag.

• Black, cotton interior.

CONS:

• -1 point. I have never held an authentic city, but I think the leather is too thick on this one. It doesn't have that soft slouchy effect. I am actually kind of glad the corner is dent and it took a beating in the mail because it makes it look like it it is slouchy, even though it isn't. In my mind, Cities are supposed to look like this or this. I am hoping with time it will get better.

SATISFACTION: 8/10

The thickness of the leather really takes this down a notch for me. Having said that, I know there are many different seasons and types of leather, and I can also find a bunch of photos of bags that are not 100% butter, so it is as much my fault for having very specific expectations.

The smell makes it a little less appealing to take this bag out of the closet.

Serial Number Lookup Warranty

I bought the anthracite because it was at a discount, and hoping I would be happy with the color. The color is fine but I'd still rather have it in black, so I ordered leather dye and will do a little DIY project this weekend! Maybe that will fix the smell, and a bit of massaging might make the leather a little more slouchy as well. If there is an interest I might do a post on my experiences dyeing the bag.

I am also considering storing it on a hanger with a bunch of my dive weights in it to see if I can distort it a little to punch out the dent and make it a little more slouchy.

COMMUNICATION: 10/10

Equipment Serial Number Lookup

NBF are great, easy to work with. They respond fairly quickly. I love that shipping is included in the price.

Balenciaga Serial Number Lookup Free