It’s no secret that a Hermès Birkin bag is a highly covetable accessory. Savvy investors are still on the hunt to collect the most unique models out there. Case in point: a 2015 Himalaya niloticus crocodile Birkin 35 bag sold for £162,500 at Christie’s in London this week – exceeding its predicted sales price of £70-90,000.
Bidders from 41 countries took part in the auction with sales of 243 lots reaching £3.4 million. Additionally, a 2007 Hermès shiny ficelle porosus crocodile Birkin sold for £118,750, also exceeding its predicted sales price of £50,000-70,000.
“In today’s accessories market, investment worthy handbags are distinguished by timeless design and impeccable craftsmanship,” Rachel Koffsky, head of sale, handbags and accessories at Christie’s, London, tells Vogue of the bag. “The Birkin bag has not changed in the 30-plus years since it emerged on the market. The pieces are crafted in the atelier, by expert artisans utilising the double needle saddle stitch. This method ensures that for decades after this hand production, if used gently and stored properly, the Birkin will still look great and be a useful addition to a woman or man’s wardrobe.”
Koffsky continued: “In addition, special Birkins which were created for a limited time have become even more collectible. A 2010 limited edition black Birkin achieved £62,500 against an estimate of £10,000-15,000 as this rare and coveted model has been unavailable on the primary market for almost a decade.”
The bag, which was famously named after the French actor and singer Jane Birkin, is loved by celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, Lady Gaga and the Olsen twins.
At the same auction, designs from Karl Lagerfeld’s 36-year tenure at Chanel were also in demand. A 2010 amethyst alligator bag, which was estimated to sell for between £6-8,000, raised £18,750. Furthermore, a 2017 Chanel black lucite and crystal rocket ship bag (with the same estimated sales price) reached £21,250.
Originally published on British Vogue.
Editor
Susan Devaney
