Typically, counterfeit digital calipers are offered at a significantly lower price than the genuine ones. As of 2023, a real Mitutoyo 500-196-30 caliper tends to cost over $120 when purchased individually in new condition. A price below $100 could be an indication of a counterfeit product. Remember the adage, if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

The packaging of original 500-196-30 digital calipers is distinct and speaks volumes about their authenticity. Genuine calipers come in a unique plastic case embossed with the Mitutoyo logo. A vital and often overlooked detail is the "Made in Japan" insignia at the bottom of the case, a clear indication of the tool's origin and authenticity.

Moreover, Mitutoyo incorporates plastic recycling markers on their cases, signaling their eco-conscious manufacturing practices. Counterfeit products often overlook these nuances, making them discernable from the authentic ones.

Another factor to note is the interior of the case. Genuine Mitutoyo caliper cases for the 6" models do not contain foam inserts. If you come across a case with foam padding inside, it could be an indication of a counterfeit product.

Counterfeit products might arrive in generic or subpar packaging that doesn't align with Mitutoyo's characteristic style. If you notice any discrepancies with the packaging, logo, or the "Made in Japan" mark, or encounter foam inside a 6" caliper case, it's prudent to question the authenticity of the product.

Mitutoyo digital calipers are known for their excellent build quality. Genuine calipers are crafted from stainless steel, have a smooth operation, and are incredibly precise. Counterfeit calipers often feel flimsy, exhibit sticky movement, and may present errors in measurement.

The genuine 500-196-30 model has a slider that moves smoothly and consistently. Counterfeits may have a jerky or inconsistent slide motion. The lock mechanism on the genuine calipers operates flawlessly, while the counterfeits might be faulty or inconsistent.

Every genuine Mitutoyo digital caliper showcases an engraved Mitutoyo logo and a unique serial number, serving as clear identifiers of authenticity. The absence of these marks could indicate a counterfeit product.

However, do note that counterfeit products may also bear these identifiers, albeit less precisely, to mimic the original. A more subtle, yet reliable, sign of authenticity lies in the orientation of the label at the back of the tool.

On authentic Mitutoyo calipers, this label is oriented such that when you hold the tool with the jaws pointing downwards, the text on the label reads from left to right. If the label's orientation deviates from this, it may be a sign of a counterfeit product.

Always inspect these details carefully. The presence of the logo and serial number, coupled with the correct label orientation, are crucial in verifying the authenticity of your 500-196-30 digital calipers.

When you purchase genuine Mitutoyo digital calipers, they come accompanied by a product manual and an inspection certificate. This certificate confirms that the product meets the necessary standards, reflecting its credibility and quality.

If these documents are missing, the calipers could well be counterfeit. However, it's essential to note that counterfeiters may go the extra mile and include counterfeit certificates. Here, a keen eye for detail can help.

Mitutoyo's inspection certificates have a distinctive layout and typeface. The uniformity extends to the serial number on the certificate, which should match the font, ink color, and typeface of the rest of the document. If the serial number looks different, is misaligned, or uses a different font, consider it a red flag.

This meticulous attention to detail is characteristic of Mitutoyo's commitment to quality and authenticity. Therefore, any deviation, particularly in the layout, typeface, or the style of the serial number on the inspection certificate, could be indicative of a counterfeit product.

Purchasing from an authorized dealer is one of the safest ways to ensure you're investing in a genuine product. Mitutoyo's official website provides a comprehensive list of these authorized dealers.

What sets apart a highly qualified authorized dealer is the provision of additional services beyond the sale of the product, such as third-party calibration and certification services. This is an added layer of assurance, confirming that your newly acquired tool not only is authentic but also performs with precision.

Look for authorized dealers who can provide calibration services with NIST traceability and ISO 17025 accreditation. The NIST traceability guarantees that the calibration measurements can be linked back to the National Institute of Standards and Technology's standards, ensuring utmost precision. ISO 17025 accreditation further validates the competency of the calibration laboratory, confirming that it upholds the highest technical and quality standards.

By choosing such an authorized dealer, you don't merely purchase a product; you make a valuable investment in a tool that guarantees accurate, reliable results, adding credibility to your work.

Genuine 500-196-30 digital calipers are precisely calibrated, offering accurate and consistent measurements. Counterfeit calipers, on the other hand, often lack this level of precision. To ensure the utmost accuracy, consider purchasing from an authorized dealer that offers ISO 17025 accredited calibration at the point of sale. This additional step provides a further guarantee of the tool's precision and your investment's value.