The year 2017 witnessed the continued reign of the Hermès Birkin bag as the ultimate symbol of luxury and exclusivity. While precise pricing wasn't publicly released as a comprehensive list, the year saw significant price increases and the sale of exceptionally rare and expensive Birkins, solidifying its position as one of the most coveted and expensive handbags in the world. This article delves into the cost of Hermès Birkin bags in 2017, exploring the factors contributing to their astronomical prices and examining the record-breaking sale that cemented the Birkin's legendary status.
2017 Hermès Handbag Prices: A Range of Extravagance
Unlike many brands that publish readily available price lists, Hermès maintains a degree of secrecy around the exact pricing of its Birkin bags. Prices vary wildly depending on several factors, including:
* Material: The most significant factor influencing price is the material used. Leather types range from classic calfskin to exotic skins like crocodile, ostrich, and lizard. The rarity and quality of the leather dramatically impact the final cost. For example, a Birkin in Togo calfskin would be considerably less expensive than one crafted from Nile crocodile.
* Size: Birkin bags come in a variety of sizes, from the petite 20cm to the spacious 40cm. Larger bags generally command higher prices due to the increased amount of material and labor required.
* Hardware: The metal hardware (typically palladium or gold) also plays a role. Gold hardware usually adds to the overall cost.
* Color: Certain colors, particularly those considered classic or rare, will fetch higher prices. Neutral tones like black, brown, and beige are consistently popular, while vibrant or unique colors can be more desirable among collectors.
* Rarity: Limited edition Birkins, those featuring unique details or collaborations, are exceptionally valuable. These bags often appear on the secondary market for significantly higher prices than their original retail value.
While precise 2017 prices remain elusive, it's safe to say that a standard Birkin in calfskin would have started at around $8,000 to $12,000. However, prices could easily escalate into the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars for bags made from exotic skins, featuring rare colors, or possessing exceptional craftsmanship.
This $379,261 Hermès Birkin Handbag is the Most Expensive Ever (At the Time)
2017 wasn't just another year for Hermès; it marked a pivotal moment in the Birkin's history. The sale of a white Himalaya crocodile diamond Birkin bag at Christie's auction house for a staggering $379,261 set a new world record for the most expensive handbag ever sold. This particular bag was exceptionally rare, featuring pristine white Niloticus crocodile skin, meticulously hand-stitched, and accented with 18-karat white gold and diamond hardware. The Himalaya coloration, achieved through a painstaking dyeing process, is highly sought after and adds significantly to the bag's value. This sale highlighted the Birkin's status as not just a handbag, but a highly sought-after collectible item, capable of appreciating in value over time.
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