A Collector's Dream: Spotlight on the Rare Hermès Himalaya Birkin 35cm

The Hermès Himalaya Birkin 35cm is not just a handbag; it is a statement piece, a status symbol, and an investment. Recently sourced and sold to a very special client, this exquisite bag epitomises luxury and exclusivity. In this article, we delve into the fascinating backstory of the Himalaya Birkin, explore its rarity, discuss its investment potential, and appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship that makes it a standout piece in the world of luxury fashion.

The Hermès Himalaya Birkin derives its name from the majestic Himalayan mountains. The bag's colour gradient, from a smoky grey to a pearly white, mirrors the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. This particular coloration is achieved through an intricate dyeing process, making each bag unique. The Himalaya Birkin is crafted from Niloticus crocodile skin, sourced from the Nile River. The meticulous selection and treatment of the leather contribute to the bag's luxurious feel and appearance.

The Himalaya Birkin comes both with and without diamonds. The Diamond Himalaya is infamous for being the most expensive handbag ever sold at auction. In 2022, Sotheby's sold a Diamond Himalaya Birkin 30 for over $450,000 USD. This version is constructed out of Niloticus crocodile skin dyed in a white and grey gradient, evoking the white-capped peaks of the Himalaya Mountains. This unique colouring pairs perfectly with 18-karat white gold hardware, studded with white diamonds. The cadena lock alone comprises 68.4 grams of 18-karat white gold and is encrusted with 40 white round brilliant diamonds, totalling 1.64 carats. On the bag, three different structural elements—the Touret, the Pontets, and the Plaques de Sanglons—feature more than 200 diamonds for a total of 8.2 carats. These precious materials enhance the exquisite colouring of the crocodile, making it a rare and celebrated find among collectors.

Recently, we had the privilege of sourcing and selling a remarkable Hermès Himalaya Birkin 35cm to a very special client. This particular bag, stamped with the date code "T" indicating it was crafted in 2015, features the signature palladium hardware that beautifully complements the bag's white and grey gradient. Its dimensions—35cm in width, 28cm in height, and 20cm in depth, with an 11cm handle drop—make it not only a stunning accessory but also a practical one for everyday use.

The bag's exterior is in excellent condition, reflecting the meticulous care it has received. It is accompanied by its original accessories and paperwork, further verifying its authenticity and adding to its value. This Himalaya Birkin exemplifies the pinnacle of Hermès craftsmanship, from the perfectly stitched seams to the polished hardware, every detail speaks of the brand’s commitment to excellence.

The Hermès Himalaya Birkin is one of the rarest handbags in the world. Its production is extremely limited, and acquiring one is a challenge even for the most dedicated collectors. The 35cm size, in particular, is highly sought after. The rarity of this size adds to the bag's exclusivity and value given that 35cm are few and far between in recent times. Owning a Himalaya Birkin is a privilege reserved for Hermès VIP clients, often requiring a long-standing relationship with the brand and significant spending history.

The Hermès Himalaya Birkin is not only a fashion statement but also a smart investment. Over the years, these bags have consistently appreciated in value. Auction houses worldwide have seen record-breaking sales of Himalaya Birkin’s. For instance, a Himalaya Birkin 35cm was sold for over $500,000 at a recent auction, setting a new benchmark for luxury handbags. In 2021, the Himalaya Birkin 25cm was the most sought after size and sold for over $300,000 at Sotheby's. In 2023, prices for the most desirable Himalaya Birkin 25cm in store-fresh condition hover around $200,000. The Himalaya Birkin 30 has been selling closer to $150,000 in similar condition while older bags with more noticeable wear are selling closer to $100,000. The limited supply and high demand ensure that these bags retain and increase their value over time, making them a lucrative investment for collectors.

The Hermès Himalaya Birkin 35cm is made from matte Niloticus crocodile skin, known for its softness and durability. The palladium hardware complements the bag's icy colour palette, adding to its luxurious appearance. Inside, the bag is lined with luxurious taupe leather and includes multiple pockets for organisation, maintaining the Hermès standard of practicality combined with opulence. The iconic Hermès turn-lock closure, complete with a padlock and keys, ensures the bag's security and adds a touch of sophistication.

The beauty of the Himalaya Birkin lies in its exquisite craftsmanship. The gradient colour, achieved through a painstaking dyeing process, sets it apart from other luxury handbags. The combination of the rare Niloticus crocodile skin and the palladium hardware creates a visually stunning piece. The attention to detail, from the perfectly stitched seams to the polished hardware, exemplifies Hermès' commitment to quality and artistry.

The Hermès Himalaya Birkin 35cm is more than a handbag; it is a symbol of status, luxury, and investment potential. Its rarity, combined with its exquisite craftsmanship, makes it one of the most coveted pieces in the fashion world. For collectors and fashion enthusiasts, the Himalaya Birkin is a dream come true, offering both aesthetic pleasure and financial returns. As we celebrate this extraordinary bag, we also acknowledge the craftsmanship and exclusivity that Hermès continues to uphold in the world of luxury fashion.