Hermès Birkin 40 HAC Black Suede & Crocodile Gold Hardware - Rare

Hermès HAC 40 Black Suede & Crocodile Gold Hardware

This Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) 40 is a singular masterpiece of texture and history. Crafted from a rare combination of velvety Black Suede (Daim) and glossy Crocodile skin, this bag transforms the utilitarian travel silhouette into a sophisticated tactile experience. The suede body absorbs light to create a deep, matte noir finish, while the crocodile trim—applied to the high-stress points of the flap, handles, and sangles—provides a lustrous, durable contrast. This "Mixed Media" configuration is virtually unseen in the HAC 40 size, making it a true unicorn in the archive of Hermès travel goods.

The HAC 40 traces its lineage back to 1892, when Émile-Maurice Hermès modeled it after the totes used by Argentinian cowboys, establishing the archetype for the modern weekend bag. It features the classic tall proportions and shorter handles that distinguish it from the Birkin. Accented with warm Gold hardware, this piece exudes an Old World elegance. As a preloved item, it shows visible swirl marks on the hardware, consistent with its journey, yet retains the imposing magnificence that defines the Haut à Courroies.

Condition: 2 – Very Good (Preloved; Visible swirl marks on hardware)
Model: HAC 40 (Haut à Courroies)
Color: Black (Noir)
Material: Suede (Daim) & Crocodile
Hardware: Gold
Dimensions: 40 × 36 × 24 cm | 16" W × 14" H × 9.5" D

JaneFinds Collector's Insight:
Suede Hermès bags are exceptionally rare due to the delicate nature of the material and the difficulty of its production. To find suede paired with crocodile on a HAC 40 is a "Black Swan" event. This bag represents the pinnacle of bespoke luxury, likely a special commission or a limited historical run that precedes modern mass production. It is a museum-quality piece for the serious archivist.

JaneFinds Market Insight:
While standard leather HACs are traded frequently, "Exotic Touch" or mixed-material versions inhabit a different valuation stratosphere. The rarity of this specific Suede/Crocodile combination makes comparable sales data nearly non-existent, positioning it as a "Name Your Price" asset. It appeals to the collector who already owns the Holy Grail Himalayas and seeks something darker, subtler, and infinitely rarer.

👜 JaneFinds Condition Guide
📅 Hermès Date Stamp Reference
⛓️ Accessory Chains
📐 Hermès Size Guide