10 Rare Facts About Hermès Bags That Even Collectors Don’t Know

10 Rare Facts About Hermès Bags

Introduction

Hermès is one of the most prestigious luxury brands in the world, known for its iconic handbags like the Birkin, Kelly, and Constance. While these bags are widely recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and exclusivity, there are many fascinating facts about Hermès that even seasoned collectors may not know.

From the secret meaning of the horseshoe stamp to the unexpected origins of the Birkin bag, this article reveals 10 rare and little-known facts about Hermès handbags.


1. Each Hermès Bag is Made by a Single Artisan

Unlike most luxury handbags, which are crafted by multiple artisans, every Hermès Birkin, Kelly, and Constance bag is meticulously handmade by a single artisan from start to finish.

Why This Matters:

  • This ensures uniformity and precision in craftsmanship.
  • It can take 15 to 40 hours to complete just one bag, depending on its size and material.
  • Each artisan stamps their initials inside the bag, making each piece uniquely identifiable.

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2. The Birkin Bag Was Created by Accident

The Birkin bag, one of the most sought-after luxury handbags, was not originally planned by Hermès.

How It Happened:

  • In 1984, actress Jane Birkin was seated next to Jean-Louis Dumas, the then Hermès CEO, on a flight from Paris to London.
  • She complained that she couldn’t find a bag spacious enough for her needs.
  • Dumas sketched the first Birkin design on an airline sick bag, leading to the creation of one of the most iconic handbags in history.

Explore pre-owned Hermès Birkin bags here: Birkin Collection


3. The Horseshoe Stamp Signifies a Special Order Bag

Some Hermès bags have a small horseshoe stamp next to the logo inside the bag.

What This Means:

  • The Horseshoe Stamp (HSS) indicates that the bag was custom-ordered by a VIP client.
  • These bags allow the buyer to choose unique color combinations and exotic leathers that are not available in standard collections.
  • Because of their rarity, HSS Hermès bags have significantly higher resale value.
Bag TypeStandard Bag Price (INR)HSS Bag Price (INR)
Birkin 30 (Togo, PHW)₹10,00,000 – ₹16,00,000₹15,00,000 – ₹22,00,000
Kelly 25 (Epsom, GHW)₹11,00,000 – ₹17,00,000₹16,00,000 – ₹25,00,000

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4. The Kelly Bag Was Originally Called “Sac à Dépêches”

The Kelly bag was not originally designed as a women’s handbag.

Historical Background:

  • It was introduced in 1892 as the “Sac à Dépêches”, a leather bag for carrying documents.
  • In 1956, Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco was spotted using it to cover her pregnancy from paparazzi.
  • The photographs became iconic, and Hermès officially renamed the bag the Kelly in her honor.

Explore classic Hermès Kelly bags here: Kelly Collection


5. Some Hermès Bags Are More Expensive Than Gold

Hermès bags are known to appreciate in value, but some editions are worth more than their weight in gold.

Record-Breaking Bags:

  • The Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile Birkin, featuring diamond-studded hardware, sold for over $400,000 at auction.
  • Exotic leathers like alligator, ostrich, and lizard significantly increase the price of Hermès handbags.
Bag ModelRetail Price (INR)Resale Price (INR)
Birkin 25 (Niloticus Crocodile)₹30,00,000₹50,00,000+
Kelly 28 (Ostrich)₹15,00,000₹25,00,000+

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6. Hermès Uses a Secret Stitching Technique

Hermès artisans use a special hand-stitching method called “saddle stitching.”

Why It’s Special:

  • The technique dates back to 1837 and ensures that each stitch is perfectly aligned.
  • Even if a thread breaks, the bag will not unravel, making Hermès bags incredibly durable.

7. The First Birkin Ever Made Belongs to Jane Birkin

Jane Birkin used her original Birkin bag daily for over 30 years.

Interesting Details:

  • Her bag became heavily worn, showing that Hermès bags age beautifully over time.
  • She later auctioned it off for charity, raising a significant amount due to its history.

8. Hermès Bags Are Made from Ethically Sourced Exotic Leathers

Hermès adheres to strict ethical sourcing guidelines when using exotic leathers like crocodile, ostrich, and alligator.

Sourcing Facts:

  • The Niloticus Crocodile leather used in high-end Birkin bags is farmed under regulated conditions.
  • No Hermès bag is mass-produced, ensuring sustainability and quality control.

Browse ethically sourced Hermès exotic handbags here: Explore Collection


9. The Constance Bag Was Named After Its Designer’s Daughter

The Hermès Constance bag was created in 1969 by designer Catherine Chaillet.

Why It’s Unique:

  • She named the bag after her newborn daughter, Constance.
  • The bag’s H-shaped clasp became a symbol of sophistication and elegance.

Find pre-loved Hermès Constance bags here: Shop Now


10. There’s a Secret Way to Spot an Authentic Hermès Bag

While there are many authentication methods, one little-known trick is checking the weight of the hardware.

How to Authenticate:

  • Genuine Hermès bags use solid metal hardware that feels substantially heavy.
  • Counterfeit bags often have lightweight or plated metal, which is a major red flag.

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Final Thoughts

Hermès handbags are more than just luxury accessories—they are pieces of history, craftsmanship, and investment. Whether it’s the Birkin, Kelly, or Constance, these handbags hold their value due to their exceptional materials and artisanal production process.

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