I almost bought a fake vintage lamp at the swap meet in Pasadena

I used to just grab anything that looked old and cool, but last month I spotted a mid-century lamp with a $75 tag. I was ready to pay until I checked the cord and saw a modern UL stamp. The seller swore it was original, but that stamp didn't exist back then. Now I always carry a small flashlight to check for modern parts before I even talk price. Has anyone else caught a fake because of a small detail like that?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_karen10d ago

Good call checking the cord. I always look for those little plug prongs too, the old ones are usually a different shape. A magnet is handy to check if something is real brass or just plated steel.

xena_kim10d ago

That magnet trick is a lifesaver, @the_karen. My dad once bought a whole set of "brass" door handles that all stuck to a fridge magnet.