The Himalaya Birkin is one of the most sought-after handbags in the world fetching record numbers at auctions – both public and private.
The Hermès Himalaya is truly a piece of wearable work of art. Crafted from Niloticus crocodile, the Himalaya is famous for its delicate gradation of colour: fading from a smoky grey into a pearly white, resembling the majestic, snow-capped Himalayan mountain range. By using precious materials, coupled with exquisite craftsmanship, the Himalaya is the ultimate expression of the artistry and tradition of the storied Hermès House.
The Himalaya series includes the three most collectable Hermès models — the Birkin, Kelly and Constance.
The Hermès Himalayan takes its true inspiration from early crocodile handbags that, if not dyed black or brown, would be lightened to highlight the skin’s natural colouring. This natural ombré went out of style as dyeing techniques improved and colour created more and more possibilities for exotics.
Initially, the 30cm matte Himalaya Birkins were kept secret and only sold to top collectors. This new, unique style was only known to the most dedicated Hermes fans. That is, until 2010 when Jean-Paul Gaultier sent a Himalaya Birkin down the Hermès’ spring runway. From that moment on the Himalayan Birkin was the bag to have.
Currently, a 25cm Himalaya Birkin retails between $45,000 and $65,000 at Hermès (prices can vary by country and with local taxes).
In 2017 the average price for Himalaya bags at auction was just over $106,000 with the record held by a 25cm Kelly that achieved just over $150,000.
Fast forward to 2022 and the record is still held by a 25cm Kelly, but the top number has ballooned to over $435,000.
