Why authenticity matters for this special kit

This isn't just any shirt - it's a tribute to Elton John's transformative era at Watford, when he led the club from the lower divisions to the top flight and even to an FA Cup final.

The kit, worn only once, during the Championship match against Blackburn Rovers on 13 September 2025, makes this a prized trophy in any fan and collector’s cabinet. Official versions come in adult sizes from S to 4XL, priced at £76 for an adult kit and £60 for junior, and are available with or without the sponsor logo.

Buying legit ensures you're getting a piece of history crafted with premium materials, while at the same time, supporting Watford FC directly.

Where to buy the legit kit

If you’re buying a new shirt, the only place to truly guarantee authenticity is the official Watford store - the Hornet’s Shop.

Shop here: https://www.thehornetsshop.co.uk/kit/third-kit/ 

Remember, official kits are not sold for £18.99 - so if you’re enticed by a good deal, even on what looks a legitimate site, it’s 99% counterfeit. Remember to always report the user directly for enforcement action here: https://kitlegit.com/watfordfc

If you’re buying second-hand, then be wary. The same rule applies - new kits should not be selling for extremely low prices. Used kits should be decently priced (remember, it's a collector’s item), and should match in specs to the official item.

A KitLegit certificate to go with your used item will ensure that you’re buying the real thing, but more on that later.

Key Indicators of an authentic kit

Armed with close-up photos or the shirt in hand, inspect these elements. Genuine kits exhibit flawless craftsmanship - any inconsistencies are red flags.

1. Color and Overall Design

• Base Color and Pattern: The shirt is a deep blue base with a subtle, sublimated star pattern covering the front and back, evoking the "Diamonds" album artwork. The stars should be faint and evenly distributed, not printed boldly or unevenly like on fakes. Look for white piping along the shoulders, with repeating silver E-star logos (a capital E with a star in the middle) integrated seamlessly.
  
  

• Collar and Cuffs: The polo-style collar and sleeve cuffs feature woven star details. These should feel textured and integrated into the fabric, not stuck on or peeling.
  
  

⚠️ Fake Alert: Counterfeits may have mismatched blues (too light or navy) or pixelated stars from low-quality printing.

2. Logos and Badges

• Watford Crest: Positioned on the left chest, it's rendered in silver and blue - crisp, embroidered, and slightly raised for a premium feel.
  
  

• Kelme Logos: Silver Kelme branding on the right chest and sleeves. The logos should be heat-pressed, without fraying.
  
  

• Elton John Elements: The signature E-star logo appears on the back collar and down the shoulders. On the front hem (jock tag), look for the retro silver "Happy Hornet" badge, a nod to Elton's chairmanship era.
  
  

• Sponsor Option: If present, the MrQ sponsor logo should be cleanly applied; non-sponsored versions are also official.
  
  

⚠️ Fake Alert: Fakes often have blurry, off-center logos or incorrect silver shading (too shiny or dull). The E-star found across the shirt should be exact - no variations.

3. Embossed Lyrics and Unique Detailing

• Back Hem Embossing: Near the bottom back hem, the lyrics "How wonderful life is while you're in the world" from Elton's "Your Song" are embossed subtly into the fabric. This should feel raised and integrated, not printed or sticky.
  
  

⚠️ Fake Alert: Counterfeits might misspell the lyrics, use flat printing instead of embossing, or omit this detail entirely - it's a telltale sign.

4. Material and Stitching Quality

• Fabric: Crafted from high-quality polyester knit, the shirt is breathable, lightweight, and durable with a soft hand-feel. 
  
  

• Stitching: All seams, hems, and details feature even, tight stitching with no loose threads. Side vents and reinforced areas add to the premium build.
  
  

⚠️ Fake Alert: Fakes use cheap, stiff polyester that pills easily. Stitching may be uneven, with glue residue or visible machine errors.

5. Tags, Labels, and Holograms

• Neck Label: The internal neck tag should include a Kelme logo, Elton John x Watford branding, the size and country of manufacture. 
  
  

• Care Labels: Care labels with the Kelme logo, wash instructions, composition (100% polyester) and a country of manufacture should be present in the inner waist.
  
  

• Security Feature: Official Watford shirts should always have an authenticity badge present at the bottom right (outside) of the shirt. While no unique codes are visible, this is still a great way to ensure your shirt is not a fake.
  
  

⚠️ Fake Alert: Missing holograms, misspelled labels (e.g., "Kelme" as "Kemle" knockoffs), or generic tags are common in fakes. Authentic tags are sewn and printed neatly, and never glued.

6. Packaging and Accessories

• Official Packaging: Genuine kits come in a special edition gift box with Watford FC and Kelme branding. All shirts purchased from the official store should have this packaging detail present.
  
  

⚠️ Fake Alert: No box or cheap plastic wrapping? Or Sports Performance tags? Likely fake.

Pro Tip: Use KitLegit for Instant Verification

While manual checks are great, technology makes it foolproof. KitLegitsupports all Watford FC gear, offers an AI-powered app to authenticate your Elton John kit effortlessly.

Upload 3-8 photos of key areas (logos, tags, embossing), and get an instant report analyzing thousands of indicators.

Download on iOS or Android from kitlegit.com, and receive a digital certificate to share or sell with confidence. Users love it for flagging fakes before purchase - saving time and money.

What if you’ve bought a fake?

If you’ve got a fake shirt, your next step is to report the user and try to get your money back from the seller, marketplace or your credit card provider.

As evidence of authenticity, you can use the digital or PDF certificate available to you in the KitLegit app.

You should also report the seller for enforcement action here: https://kitlegit.com/watfordfc 

Conclusion: Shop Smart and Honor the Legacy

Verifying your Watford FC Elton John special edition kit ensures you're celebrating Sir Elton's legacy authentically. Always buy from official sources like The Hornets Shop (thehornetsshop.co.uk) or authorized retailers to minimize risks. 

If sourcing second-hand, cross-reference these indicators and leverage KitLegit for expert assurance. By choosing legit gear, you're not just wearing a shirt - you're part of Watford's storied journey. How wonderful life is, indeed!

For more tips or to check your kit today, visit kitlegit.com.