The Hermès white Himalaya crocodile diamond Birkin bag has recently ( November 2017) been sold for $379,261 at Christie’s Auction in Hong Kong making it the most expensive handbag sold in an auction.
The stunning Hermès Himalaya Birkin bag is one of the most sought after bags in the world. Holding the item from Himalaya collection is a dream of many women, especially those following fashion trends.
The exclusivity and enchanting materials used in the creation of this handbag is known as ‘Holy Grail’ in the fashion industry. The combination of Niloticus crocodile skin and more than 240 diamonds set on 18-karat-gold hardware create a dazzling and prestigious Himalayan Birkin.
Unlike other bags that are named after their origin, this Birkin owes its name “Himalayan” to its appearance. The bag colour patterns, with smoky grey fading into pearl white, resemble the majestic mountain range sprawling from east of Afghanistan to West of Burma.
It is due to a complex and innovative dyeing process that allows Hermes to create the immaculate white of the snow and the gradation to rocky grey.
This timeless piece of art has caught the eyes of famous celebrities including Kim Kardashian, Victoria Beckham, and Kendal Jenner. As the number of handbags handmade each year is limited to two, Hermès Himalayan Birkin is “possibly the rarest and most desirable handbag in the world”, says Hermès expert Jane Finds.
Unlike other branded bags that can be easily bought in-store or online, Hermes Birkin and Kelly bags aren’t as easy to purchase.
As it is made by special order only, the wait may stretch up to 6 years. Such high demand makes a retail sale of Hermes Himalayan Birkin an exclusive offer that Hermès can only extend to its VIP clients.
The retail price starts at $300’000. As currently, the bag is not available for a retail sale, the resale pieces can exceed the potential valuation of over $400,000.