Vintage Hermès Birkin: Special Order

My latest acquisition, a vintage 1992 Special Order 40cm Hermès Birkin in Black Vache Ardennes with Rouge Vif lining with Gold Hardware, fresh from the Hermès Spa. What sets Hermès apart from almost every other Luxury purveyor is that they will repair and refurbish all of their products, virtually for life. Invest in an Hermès bag and they will stand behind it.

When my favorite dealer approached me with this bag, it was in terrible condition. It had been used to death and likely was never sent to Hermès for refurbishing before now. The edges all needed re-waxing and the exterior had been marked over the years with splashes of coffee and such. Someone really put this bag to task! The Rouge Vif lining had lost some color on the upper edge where it met the Black exterior. However, I recognized that the leather was in excellent condition and only looked bad due to cosmetic issues. The corners and piping were all in tact and undamaged. The base of the lining was banged up, but that did not bother me because I keep so much junk in my bags, I can't even see the base!

I had faith that Hermès could refurbish it and I am absolutely thrilled with the results. The cadena (lock) and clochette (key holder) had been lost, but Hermès was happy to replace the cadena and make a clochette (for a small fee). For Special Order bags with contrast linings, the interior of the clochette matches the lining (unless you request otherwise), and this new one matches perfectly. The skin is now smooth and spotless, yet rigid with the distinctive sheen of Ardennes. Pierre even touched up the color of the lining where it meets the exterior. I doubt anyone would be able to guess that this bag is nearly 18 years old.