Against tales of a reported slump in sales of luxury items, a Hermès Birkin handbag was recently sold for US$221,846 at a Christie’s auction in Hong Kong.

Hermès’ shiny fuchsia Crocodile handbag (2014), laden with 18 carat white gold and diamond on its clasp and padlock, set the record for the most expensive handbag ever sold at an auction. The tote was claimed by an anonymous Asian phone bidder for almost 15 percent more than the highest estimate.

The previous record for the most expensive handbag sold at an auction was also a Hermès: a red Crocodile Birkin, which went for around US$203,150 in 2011. While that record lasted four years, experts expect the new benchmark to be surpassed relatively quickly, possibly this year itself. This prediction comes as Hermès is directly selling one of its latest Birkin handbags for US$450,000.


While there have also been prolific handbag purchases from other brands like Fendi and Louis Vuitton, Hermès has clearly topped the charts in recent times. This year the brand reached another milestone as its black Crocodile Kelly was sold for US$145,000, which became the most expensive Hermès Kelly ever sold in an auction. Meanwhile, its Crocodile Birkin (2014) was sold for US$160,704. A prominent trait amongst trending handbags is the exquisite use of animal skin, especially those of crocodiles, lizards and even ostriches. Hermès also claims that each of their handbag pieces is individually hand stitched for upto 48 hours, with extra care given to its fine detailing and immaculate finishing.

The brand has also kindled a fond connection with film stars and celebrities, as two of its biggest handbag bestsellers are named after actresses Jane Birkin and Grace Kelly. As the waiting list for just one tote extends into countless months, the cult status of a Hermès still makes a prominent feature on practically every collector’s’ wish list.

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