The Ultimate Guide to Hermès Horseshoe Stamp and Special Order Bags

Hermès, the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship, offers a unique experience for its most loyal customers: the Special Order (SO) service, distinguished by the coveted Horseshoe Stamp (HSS). This emblem signifies a bespoke creation, tailored to the client's specific desires, making it one of the most exclusive and sought-after offerings in the luxury market. Understanding the intricacies of the Hermès Horseshoe Stamp and Special Order bags can elevate your appreciation and expertise in the world of high-end fashion.

The Horseshoe Stamp, or HSS, is a discreet mark placed next to the Hermès insignia, signifying a Special Order bag. Introduced over a decade ago, this stamp has become a symbol of exclusivity and personalised luxury. Before the official introduction of the HSS, Special Order pieces did not have any identifying marks, making the introduction of the stamp a significant milestone in the brand's history.

Special Order bags allow clients to customise various aspects of their bag, from the type of leather to the colour of the hardware, creating a truly unique piece. These bespoke creations are only available to a select group of Hermès clients, typically those with a strong purchase history and a close relationship with their sales associate.

Obtaining a Special Order Hermès bag is a highly exclusive process, reserved for the brand's most valued clients. The opportunity to create a bespoke bag is typically extended twice a year and requires an invitation from Hermès. Clients are invited to a private appointment where they can discuss their preferences and customise their bag.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Invitation: Clients receive an exclusive invitation from Hermès to attend a Special Order appointment.
2. Consultation: During the appointment, clients consult with a Hermès specialist to explore the various customisation options available.'
3. Design Selection: Clients choose the bag style, size, leather type, colours, hardware, and additional details such as stitching, initials, and interior customisations.
4. Approval and Production: The final design is submitted for approval by Hermès. Once approved, the bag enters the production phase, which can take several months, sometimes years to complete.
5. Delivery: Upon completion, the bespoke bag is delivered to the client, marked with the exclusive Horseshoe Stamp.

The customisation process includes selecting the bag style, size, leather type, colour, hardware, and additional details such as stitching and initials. Some popular customisation options includes:

Bag Styles: Birkin, Kelly, Constance, among others.

Leather Types: Togo, Clemence, Epsom, Swift, Chevre and exotic skins like Crocodile and Ostrich.

Colour Options: A vast array of colours, including rare and seasonal shades.

Hardware: Options include gold, brushed gold, palladium, brushed palladium, and rose gold.

Notable Customisation Options:

Bicolour and Tricolour Designs: Customising different parts of the bag with contrasting colours.

Contrasting Stitching: Selecting a different colour for the stitching to create a unique look.

Exotic Leathers: Using rare and luxurious leathers such as Alligator, Ostrich, and Lizard.

Personalised Hardware: Options include brushed gold, brushed palladium, and rose gold, as well as custom hardware designs.

Special Order bags are known to retain and often exceed their original value on the resale market. Their rarity and bespoke nature make them highly coveted on the secondary market. Prices for HSS bags can range significantly, with some pieces selling for over £100,000. Interestingly, despite their bespoke nature, Special Order bags do not cost any more than regular Hermès bags when purchased directly from the boutique. This makes them an excellent investment for those able to acquire them through the official process, as their resale value is typically much higher due to their unique customisations and limited availability.

The personal storytelling value of a Special Order bag is also significant. Each piece is a reflection of the owner's taste and preferences, making it a unique addition to any collection. The process of creating a bespoke Hermès bag also fosters a deeper connection between the client and the brand.

Factors Contributing to Value:

Rarity: Limited production and bespoke customisation make these bags rare and highly desirable.

Craftsmanship: The meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials used in Hermès bags contribute to their lasting value.

Provenance: The history and ownership of a Special Order bag can enhance its value, especially if it was created for a notable individual or in a unique colourway.

Condition: As with all luxury items, the condition of the bag plays a crucial role in determining its value. Well-preserved bags with minimal signs of wear are more valuable.

At Xupes, we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional selection of Hermès bags, including rare and highly sought-after Special Order pieces. Our team of experts can assist you in sourcing these exclusive items, ensuring you have access to the finest luxury pieces available. Whether you are looking to purchase a new addition to your collection or seeking to sell a Special Order bag, Xupes provides a trusted and knowledgeable service tailored to your needs.

Why Choose Xupes for Special Order Bags:

Expertise: Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in sourcing and authenticating Hermès bags.

Exclusive Access: We have access to a network of collectors and suppliers, allowing us to source rare and unique pieces.

Personalised Service: We offer a tailored service to meet the specific needs of our clients, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Quality Assurance: Every bag we sell undergoes a rigorous authentication process to guarantee its authenticity and condition.

Hermès Special Order bags, distinguished by the coveted Horseshoe Stamp (HSS), represent the pinnacle of luxury and personalisation in the world of high-end fashion. These bespoke creations offer clients the unique opportunity to design a bag that reflects their individual style and preferences, making each piece a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. The history and evolution of the Horseshoe Stamp underscore Hermès' commitment to exclusivity and exceptional craftsmanship.

From the intricate customisation process to the enduring value and rarity of these bags, owning an HSS Hermès bag is a testament to discerning taste and an appreciation for the finest things in life. Despite their bespoke nature, Special Order bags do not cost more than regular Hermès bags when purchased directly from the boutique, making them an attractive investment given their higher resale value.

At Xupes, we understand the allure of these exclusive pieces and are dedicated to helping you source and acquire the finest Hermès Special Order bags. Our expertise, personalised service, and commitment to quality ensure that you have access to the most coveted luxury items, whether you are adding to your collection or seeking to sell a treasured piece.

By understanding the significance and process behind Hermès Special Order bags, you can enhance your collection with pieces that are not only beautiful and rare but also imbued with a personal story and unparalleled craftsmanship. Let Xupes guide you in this journey, providing the knowledge and support you need to make informed, confident decisions in the world of luxury handbags.