Hermès Birkin 55 Travel HAC Black Ardennes Gold Hardware
Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) 55 Black Ardennes Gold Hardware
The Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) 55 is the ultimate luxury weekender, a heritage silhouette that predates both the Birkin and the Kelly. This vintage example is crafted from Black (Noir) Ardennes, a revered and discontinued calfskin celebrated for its thick, indestructible structure, water resistance, and prominent grain. Ardennes is highly sought after by archive collectors because it holds the tall, architectural proportions of the large-scale HAC exceptionally well without slouching over time.
Accented with classic Gold hardware, the warm metallic tones provide a timeless contrast against the deep black leather. Produced in 1998 (B Square stamp), this 55cm travel piece exhibits a natural vintage patina, with softening and surface wear consistent with its intended use as a luxury travel workhorse.
Condition: 3 – Very Good (Vintage)
Stamp: B ◻ (1998)
Color: Black (Noir)
Leather: Ardennes Calfskin
Hardware: Gold
Dimensions: 55 x 45 x 28 cm | 21.6" W x 17.7" H x 11" D
Includes: Dustbag
Collector's Insight: The HAC is a massive, statement-making piece of Hermès saddlery history. Finding a 55cm example in Ardennes—which was discontinued in the early 2000s—is a specific draw for vintage collectors who value the brand's most durable, foundational materials. It is a bag built to outlast its owner.
Resale Insight: Oversized travel formats like the HAC 50 and 55 possess a cult following, heavily driven by male collectors and frequent travelers. Vintage Ardennes pieces are highly regarded; buyers often prefer them with existing character, as they are meant to be used and thrown in the trunk. The quintessential Black and Gold configuration ensures long-term liquidity and steady demand.
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Featured product
JaneFinds Beaded Semi-Precious Stone Crossbody Chain
Hand-knotted semi-precious stone crossbody chain, designed as a crossbody strap for Hermès bags or worn independently as a necklace. Crafted using up to 60 varieties of semi-precious stones including amethyst, apatite, carnelian, citrine, emerald, labradorite, lemon quartz, peach moonstone, peridot, Peruvian opal, pink moonstone, prehnite, rose quartz, ruby, sunstone, and tourmaline. Each stone is individually knotted. Lobster clasp hardware at both ends for attachment to bag hardware. Each piece varies slightly due to the natural uniqueness of the stones.
Length: 44" (112 cm)
Recommended For: 25 cm bags and smaller
Hardware: Gold or Palladium (specify at order)
Material: Semi-Precious Stones, Hand-Knotted
Production: Made to order, 7-10 business days
Note: Each chain is unique. Stones fall within the selected color range but exact composition varies.
Styling: Attach to bag hardware for crossbody or shoulder wear. Double the chain for a shorter shoulder drop or wrist-wrap carry. Works as a standalone necklace without a bag. The full JaneFinds accessory chain collection includes coordinating options in specific color palettes.
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Featured product
JaneFinds Cuban Crossbody Chain
Cuban link crossbody chain for Hermès Kelly and Mini Kelly bags. Converts top-handle carry to crossbody or shoulder wear without altering the bag. Cuban link pattern provides a flat, close-laying chain that sits flush against the body. Lobster clasp at one end, spring ring at the other. Available in Gold and Palladium to match Hermès hardware finishes.
Length: 44" (112 cm)
Hardware: Gold or Palladium
Link Style: Cuban
Production: Made to order
Clip Guide:
Standard Clip: Kelly 25, 28, 32, 35
Small Clip: Mini Kelly II 20, Vintage Kelly, Mini Bolide
Browse the full JaneFinds accessory chain collection for extenders, beaded chains, and coordinating pieces.
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Condition Rank
Condition Rank1 - Like New, shows little to no evidence of wear, age or handling
2 - Exceptionally well-maintained, very minor signs of use, wear, age, or handling
3 - Pre-Loved, gently used with slight signs of wear
4 - Pre-Loved, exhibits signs of wear and regular use
