Paris’ Hermes Headquarters

For tonight we’ve saved up a delicate snack that is so high in calories you may want to cut back on the Tostitos and salsa for the next few days. Further reading may also cause high amounts of stress and as a result thereof, hightened blood pressure, sudden queasiness and uncontrolable sweating. In addition, you may start drooling like a Pavolian dog at ring bell and tears may roll down your cheeks for no apparent reason.

Actually the reason is very apparent, because the purse blog duo had worked its way into the lion’s den, the molten, glowing hot core of the Big Momma of all handbags – the Hermes Headquarters in Paris. Being nearly paralyzed of awe, we stood in front of the wide store front and stared for literally 20 minutes at the carefully selected exclusive goodies resting in the display cases. Jealous eyes scanned those that came out of the enormous store with one of those highly sought after orange shopping bags, being proof of obvious financial wealth or willingness to dive into debt. Eventually, reality settled in and we figured that it was still yet another store that was offering goods, and that there was nothing to really be afraid of. Another reality settled in rather quickly once the heavy black doors swung open, we stepped in and the aura of perfection slapped us in our faces like a soft velvet glove.

Yes, perfection. The layout of the store, the incredible variety of items, outstanding in both price and quality, the overall flair of the three story store all just added additional weight to the already lowered jaw, like Mr. Universe was fishhooking you personally. Absolutely breathtaking. Did we mention variety? From watches, card games, to towels, jewelry, perfumes, pen holders, from tables to evening sweaters, Hermes seemed to have it all. It was quite the task to even find a handful of items, no matter how seemingly insignificant, whose prices went under the 3-digit Euro mark. There is no use to talk about the upper boundary, since there really didn’t seem to be one. And then the bags… sigh.

Hermes BagStrategically placed right around its main entrance, a great selection of handbags, small clutches or large totes, were presented to us in a wonderful fashion. Our eyes ran across the glass vitrines, unknowing which bag to look at first, because they all seemed so pretty, so perfect. The green tote below was one of our favorites (if any of our readers know its name, please let us know), and fortunately it happened to be showcased to the outside world. We also took a snapshot of two barrel bags that just looked plain delicious, too. At a price of over EUR 4,600, the deliciousness wore off a notch though. We ended up spending almost a good hour in the store, leaving it behind with a really sad heart, and a motivation to work harder and earn more money to buy us some Hermes goodies. Because afterall, who does not want to be one of those people with the orange shopping bag for once too?

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CrankyBiscuit

The green bag is called a Bolide, and it’s one of their most classic pieces. Beautiful, no? Very similar in shape to the LV Alma bag, and I think they both came out around the same time during the 1920’s.

So perfect. So expensive.

Anne

http://www.brandsinfashion.com

Check it out………… ; )

Valéry

Hello, I know the green bag is a Bolide, but a real huge size! It is mostly sold in the 31 or 27 size but this one is much bigger and frankly, not as elegant as it’s smaller friends!! xoxoxoxo

Valéry

Hello, I see someone already gave the name of the bag it’s really a huge size! It is mostly sold in the 31 or 27 size but this one is much bigger and frankly, not as elegant as it’s smaller friends!! xoxoxoxo

billyjoe

THE GREEN ONE IS GORGEOUS!

Babette

Interestingly, the Hermes Bolide was at one time called the “Bugatti,” perhaps about 15 years ago. I have an old “Voyage du Monde de Hermes” magazine with a picture and the caption of the original name. Wonder why they changed it?

Fatti

Hermés renamed its Bugatti Bag into Botilde after the car company sued in the later part of the 2oth century.

Barbara

I have a 70s vintage Hermes Kelly, brown leather and canvas. I have not seen one online and wondered at its value and if anyone knows who might restore Hermes bags. There is a stain on the canvas. I also have a 70s vintage black leather Hermes envelope that needs polishing. Would love to hear values and sources for loving care. BT

PurseFiend

“Bugatti” is actually name of a racecar; the bag was named because the shape resembled it. However, they were sued by the car company, so they changed the name to bolide.

I wouldn’t let anyone other than Claude at Hermes NYC touch my bags.

Cheers!

Another Hermes Collector

Hi, Barbara,
Agree with Pursefiend, don’t let anyone but Hermes touch your bags. I’ve seen some botch jobs that ruined the resale value of the bag. Claude at Hermes NYC is great, but overwhelmed right now. Just dropped my bags for a cleaning and was told not to expect them for 4-6 weeks. “It’s the busy season”. So, just a heads up. Also, the resale value depends on condition, size, rarity, and the desirability factor right now. Hope this helps.

Christina

Does the orange Birkin come in two tones?

Bill Scagel

I don’t look good with a purse BUT I would like another Hermes sterling ballpoint pen.

Any ideas ladies?

Thanks,

Bill

v piazza

have hermes original bugatti bag late 20’s dk beige was told by hermes paris that it is very rare I would like to sell it It is visible in Monte Carlo If interested call 00377680861187

Molly Pearce-Mooney

I have recently acquired what seems to be a vintage Hermes Bolide Bag. Right near the Hermes Paris embossing, there is a serial number blindstamped. (Very difficult to read) Does anyone know how I would verify authenticity and age of this bag?

janina

Does anyone know how to put a value on a vintage allagator Hermes briefcase/portfolio? I just inherited it and want to insure it.

Elaine Ayala

Hello,

I’m a reporter searching for a knowledgeable Hermes admirer and/or customer to quote in a story. Prefer someone from San Antonio, Texas, or environs. Please email me.

Elaine Ayala
Features writer
San Antonio Express-News
[email protected]

EZGİ

hello I’m froum turkey Very similar in shape to the LV Alma bag, and I think they both came out around the same time during the 1920’s.Right near the Hermes Paris embossing, there is a serial number blindstamped. tnx

karen

Hi, I received a Hermes bag as a gift from an Uncle in Europe back in the late 80’s early 90’s. It is a black alligator bag with Hermes Paris, Made in France embossed in gold at the top front of the bag. There are three sections with the center section having a snap closure. All three sections close with a belt that starts at the back of the bag and goes through the sections and has a lock closure in the front. The lock has a large engraved H on both sides. The gold hardware on the belt is also engraved with Hermes Paris. A leather key holder and 2keys hang from the handle.In the front, center is a raised leather oval with the letter H made from tiny hole punches. These tiny holes also outline the oval. I was wondering what the name of the bag is and its possible value. The bag is in excellent condition and has only been used 2-3 times. Most of the time it has been store in my closet. If you have any information, Please
email me at [email protected]

Maricel

Hi. I got an authentic Hermes backpack (Material: leather/canvas)as a gift. It has 2 interchangeble coated canvas bags, both in black. The top of the bag is interchangeble w/both bottoms – black leather. All the hardware on the bag marked Hermes. Inside inside the bag is a metal pole/rod fits nicely inside to hang w/c bag you are using. One end of that pole has a screw lock marked Herms and I LOST THAT SCREW. Anyone knows where can i get that missing screw? PLEASE… my email add: [email protected] THANKS IN ADVANCE!!!

rebeca franco

Looking for an old Hermes enamel equestrian bracelet in greys and browns and whites of horses and a brown carriage.

Jorge

Hello,

I am a luxury nut, and I would like to share with you a collection of Sculptures that are encrusted with swarovski crystal that are just incredible. check them out http://www.brinkerhoff.biz

FAShiONisLife

Hey if anyone is interested in Vintage HERMES…I found this site…They have the KELLY bag, 60’s Lucille DE PARIS Kelly Bag, Black HERMES Bolide…As well as many other Vintage brand names..Gucci, Chanel, Ferragamo..I think its pretty cool…Anways check it out…Have fun!!! 🙂

Hermes Fan

what’s the website you’ve found for hermes? Please advise.

Kathleen Edelman

I would love to find the sight as I am trying to sell my Kelly bag. THANKS ❗ Kathleen

Sandi Kaufman

I have a vintage Hermes Brown Briefcase
Not the traditional square hard type…
more like a Lawyers Brief That opens at the top. What makes it unusual is the large silver circular locking system on the front of the bag. It needs to be refurbished..
Any info would be greatly appreciated
please email me [email protected] I can send you pics
Regards Sandi

Maryana

At me is Vintage Hermes Kelly Bag, which I wish to sell. 28 cm, a black leather, a canvas, gilding. On a thong symbol K. How, where and for how many I can sell it? ❓ Thanks!

lorrrrrae

anybody know the name of those barrel bags in the first picture??

Rusty

Hi. I have a vintage 50s/60s Lucille de Paris alligator bag that I want to restore and sell. It needs some work. Polishing and I have to have the strap re-attached by a professional. Know of where to go- who might be interested? I’m in Brooklyn, NYC. I can’t believe what I’m seeing them go for- $45 – $1200. Same bag.
[email protected]

Hermes Fan

would love to see more of these wonderful bags come way down to the people with very little luxuries and if it’s the only item in there life they buy, they should be made available to the general public!

Judy Garcia

I bought a Hermes Paris wallet in its original Box, paper and everything indicates it is authentic, lining zipper? How can I determine if it is. I want to sell it for a cheap price since someone who had it at a yard sale obviously did not know it was worth more then what I paid for it $4.00.

Judy Garcia

I bought a Hermes Paris wallet in its original Box, paper and everything indicates it is authentic, lining zipper? How can I determine if it is. I want to sell it for a cheap price since someone who had it at a yard sale obviously did not know it was worth more then what I paid for it $4.00.
E-mail me at [email protected] if you know anyone who wants me to set photos and interested in buying it.

Diane G

my daughter bought a wallet from a yard sale around 12 years ago, well it has engraving of a hore& carraige hermes paris, i think iy is vintage but i cant find a # anywhere,do you think its authentic,thanks

Diane G

sorry i mispelled horse and it

Diane G

sorry my email is [email protected],thanks

Jessica

Is the Hermes headquarters still located in the same place? The storefront looks different when I went last year! (ipad)

Naggy

The Hermes HQ on the outside doesn’t look nearly as catchy as some of its exhibits; in fact, it looks dull. (ipad)

KY

Definitely need to go there once. (ipad)

Cheerie

i bet its amazing inside (ipad)

Peppermia X

The green bag referred to as a Bolide was previously known as the bugatti bag…. It is amazing! I picked one up a few years ago by pure luck and I love it, although I don’t think mine it is a Hermes because it has all of the Ettore Bugatti insignia including EB lock. I am desperately searching for any information about my version….. you can see it here: http://pepperboxcouture.wordpress.com/2012/02/05/ettore-bugatti-bagthrift-store-gem/

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