Hermès bags are stunning, expertly crafted, and highly coveted even among the rich and famous. However, due to their high price point and undying popularity, Hermès bags have also become a prime target for counterfeiters selling fakes for a hefty profit.
Authenticating a Hermès bag can be difficult — authentication requests to Hermès themselves are rarely entertained; your chances are slim to none even if you were to walk into one of their boutiques, much less if you are sending in an online inquiry.
As such, when buying pre-loved designer bags in Singapore, it can be a nerve-wracking experience trying to discern an authentic Hermès bag from a well-made fake. At LUX.R, we understand this all too well, which is why we have put together this piece. Here are 7 things to look out for that can help you authenticate your Hermès bag:
1. Check Shape and Proportions
Hermès bags have distinct shapes and proportions that can be hard to replicate due to the craftsmanship required. When buying pre-loved designer Hermès bags such as Kellys and Birkins in Singapore, make sure to check for their distinctively elegant, crisp lines and unmistakably luxurious silhouettes.
Hermès Kelly Retourne
The Hermès Kelly Retourne has a recognisable way of slouching once placed upright. Its stitching lies inside the bag, facilitating softer aesthetics and a seamless finish.
Hermès Kelly Sellier
The Hermès Kelly Sellier, on the other hand, has a recognisable way of standing upright without slouching. Its stitching lies on the bag’s sharp exterior, and are meticulously close together.
Hermès Birkin
While the structural characteristics of the Hermès Birkin is similar to that of the Kelly, it is much heftier in proportions, and has a luxurious weight to it. It should always sit upright when resting, on metal feet known as clou. The distance between the top of the handle — which should be rigid and upright — and the top of the bag itself should be 12.7 centimeters.
2. Examine Size and Measurements
Hermès bags rarely deviate in size and measurements, due to their great attention to detail. Check that the pre-loved Hermès bag you purchase comes in the correct size and measurements:
Hermès Kelly
Hermès Kelly 15: 15 x 11 x 5 cm
Hermès Kelly 20: 20 x 16 x 10 cm
Hermès Kelly 25: 25 x 19 x 9 cm
Hermès Kelly 28: 28 x 22 x 10 cm
Hermès Kelly 32: 32 x 23 x 10.5 cm
Hermès Kelly 35: 35 x 24 x 12 cm
Hermès Kelly 40: 40 x 28 x 16 cm
Hermès Kelly 50: 50 x 34 x 25 cm
Hermès Birkin
Hermès Birkin 25: 25 x 20 x 13 cm
Hermès Birkin 30: 30 x 22 x 16 cm
Hermès Birkin 35: 35 x 25 x 18 cm
Hermès Birkin 40: 40 x 30 x 21 cm
3. Take a Close Look at the Stitching
Hermès bags should feature a special saddle stitching derived from their established heritage of handmade equestrian leather accessories. You should see two rows of stitches in each hole, with minor imperfections due to their handmade nature. Fakes are often machine-stitched; if the pre-loved Hermès bag you buy in Singapore features stitching that is perfectly in-line with one another, it is likely to be a replica.
4. Peruse Material Choice and Quality
If ever in doubt of a Hermès bags’ quality, you are likely dealing with a fake. Hermès bags utilise only the best leather in the world, and are soft and supple to touch.
Authentic Hermès bags also have a distinct scent that remains even in pre-loved bags, no matter how old they are. When looking at prel-oved designer Hermès bags for sale in Singapore, keep in mind that Hermès’ proprietary leather treatment ends off with a finish that gives off a chemical scent.
5. Scrutinise Brand and Date Stamps
Hermès bags have their logo expertly heat-pressed onto them, with no messy indents made on the leather. Run your fingers along the logo of your Hermès bag. An authentic designer bag by Hermès should have its logo feel as though it is on top of the leather rather than pressed into it. Check out our detailed guide on Hermès date stamps here.
Shop LUX.R for Authentic Hermès Bags
LUX.R is Singapore’s leading name in luxury consignment. At our boutique, you won’t have to worry about counterfeits and the likes — all our preloved designer bags in Singapore have already been checked for authenticity.
Book an appointment and get your Hermès bag from LUX.R today, or sell or resell your branded designer bags online with us.
