Rare Hermès · Curated by Jane
Hermès Birkin 40 HAC Black Doblis Suede and Crocodile Gold Hardware
The object record
- Condition
- 3 – Very Good
- Material
- Crocodile
- Color
- HAC Black Suede
- Metallic finish
- Gold
The story behind the Birkin
Originated in 1984 from a conversation between Jane Birkin and Hermès Executive Chairman Jean-Louis Dumas; its structural lineage traces to the Haut à Courroies. Familiar sizes are 25, 30, 35 and 40 cm, alongside miniature, shoulder and travel versions, in both Retourné and Sellier construction.
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This bag channels the soul of the original design by Émile-Maurice Hermès, which Hermès dates to around 1900, an equestrian-inspired carryall that predates the Birkin and Kelly, but in this edition, the historical silhouette is elevated with the decadence of texture and contrast.
The combination of velvety Doblis suede and glossy black crocodile is striking and rare. Every detail reflects the height of Hermès craftsmanship, from the generous proportions to the architectural contrast between matte softness and structured exotic hide. The hardware shows swirl marks consistent with age and light use, placing it in very good vintage condition. This is not only a functional travel or, it’s a museum-grade example of Hermès innovation, material mastery, and design evolution.
Collector's Insight:
Crocodile production is constrained by raw material scarcity and limited annual output. Allocation within Hermès exotic bag production is among the most selective in the house.
Resale Insight:
The Birkin 40 is among the most consistently traded formats in the resale market. In a durable leather like Crocodile, it is built to be carried regularly rather than saved for occasions.
Condition, defined +
Every piece is graded on the JANEFINDS five-tier scale: 1 Pristine, 2 Excellent, 3 Very Good, 4 Good, 5 Vintage, Well-Loved. Each tier is defined in writing in The Condition Guide.
The JANEFINDS standard +
Every piece is individually inspected and represented with precision.
Returns +
A return may be requested within 24 hours of delivery, with the security tag intact and the piece returned complete and in original condition. Approved returns carry a 5% restocking fee. Full details in our Returns and Exchanges policy.