How can you tell if a Nikon lens is a gray market item?

Question

Is there any way to differentiate a gray market item by serial number or something else?

Answer 1

The best way is to simply ask: "Does this lens have a Nikon U.S.A. full warranty?" If the answer is anything less than "Yes it does!" find another seller. If it is "Yes" then ask for it in writing.

Answer 2

If you buy it new, it should have all the warranty paperwork included. If not, it's likely gray market.