Hermès Kelly Cut and Other Below the Radar Hermès Bags to Collect Now
Explore the most underrated Hermès bags worth adding to your collection this season.
W hile the Birkin 25, Mini Kelly, and Birkin Faubourg continue to break price records at auction, there are several other Hermès bags that are worth considering given their recent pricing trends. These under the radar styles, currently selling below their peak values, present excellent opportunities for savvy Hermès collectors.
Although mini Hermès bags remain a favorite, fashion trends often come full circle, and larger bags are poised to make a comeback. The practicality of larger bags is especially appealing, as the tiny dimensions of mini bags often necessitate carrying an additional bag. The growing popularity of the Chanel 22 shoulder bag could also hint at a shift toward more spacious and functional options, signaling that Hermès enthusiasts may soon favor larger, versatile styles. Read on to discover some below the radar Hermès bags to collect now.
Hermès Kelly 32 Retourne
While Hermès Mini Kellys have been all the rage for a number of years now, trends are showing signs of shifting back to bigger bags, and though we don’t expect the popularity of 20, 25 or 28cm Kelly bags to decrease any time soon, it’s likely the 32cm Kelly will soon become equally as sought-after. Particularly the Retourne Kelly 32, whose soft body lends itself perfectly to over-the-shoulder carrying. Comfortable against the body and big enough for anything you might need (without being ‘big’) the Hermès Kelly 32 Retourne is poised to become far more valuable in the near future. Now is a great time to buy these pieces, since this size generally sells at a discount compared to the smaller Kelly bags. A leather Kelly 32 often sells for under $15,000 depending on the age, material and color, while a Kelly 25 generally sells for around $25,000.
Hermès Kelly Cut
The recent surge in popularity and value of the Hermès Kelly Pochette comes as no surprise to those who have always recognized the allure of any "mini Kelly." However, the Hermès Kelly Cut has yet to regain the level of popularity it experienced closer to its debut. Introduced in 2008, the Kelly Cut is a more recent design compared to the Kelly Pochette, which first appeared in 2004.
With its iconic closure and dramatic proportions—the Kelly Cut measures 31 cm in length compared to the Pochette’s 22 cm—it offers a striking silhouette that is bound to resonate with Hermès collectors over time. Its elongated design makes it an elegant clutch and an eye-catching statement piece, especially in shiny crocodile leather.
In September 2022 at Sotheby's Paris, a 2011 Hermès Kelly Cut in Bleu Roi Shiny Niloticus Crocodile with Palladium Hardware sold for $17,291. Meanwhile, a 2011 Hermès Kelly Pochette in Crocodile Niloticus Bleu Abysse Garniture with Palladium Hardware sold for $27,171—a $10,000 premium over the Kelly Cut. Despite the price gap, the Kelly Cut’s bold design and versatility suggest it could see a resurgence in demand among collectors.
Hermès Constance Elan
The Hermès Constance bag has been a timeless icon since its debut in 1959, when its designer named it after her newborn daughter. While the most common sizes are the 24 cm and the mini 18 cm, the Constance has also been crafted in 14, 23, 25, 29, and 35 cm variations. However, we believe the Constance Elan, measuring 25 cm, is one of the most undervalued styles today.
Distinct from the rare vintage 25 cm Constance, the Constance Elan features sleek double-gusseted sides similar to the mini Constance, paired with a longer strap perfect for crossbody wear. Its slightly wider design also offers more room, enhancing its practicality. Despite its versatility, the Constance Elan currently sells for less than any other size. However, we anticipate that its rarity—produced only between 2010 and 2015—and functional design will make it a coveted choice among collectors in the years to come.
Hermès JPG Shoulder Birkin
Jean Paul Gaultier's Birkin design is nothing short of controversial. With its oversized handles, bold hardware, and exaggerated flap, this bag is as distinctive as it gets. It also holds the unique distinction of being the only Birkin designed with straps long enough to be worn over the shoulder. Its wide, horizontal silhouette sets it apart from every other Birkin, making it a statement piece like no other.
When it was discontinued in 2013, the JPG Birkin retailed for nearly $11,000—higher than any other leather Birkin at the time. Today, however, it sells for less than all other Birkins on the resale market. But as trends evolve, collectors and enthusiasts are likely to rediscover the appeal of this bold design. With current prices being relatively low, the JPG Birkin’s value is poised to appreciate over time, aligning with other collectible vintage Birkin bags.
Advantages to Buying an Hermès Bag on the Secondary Market
1. Access
Sotheby's is able to provide access to a curated selection of Hermès bags from its long established global network of sellers. Sotheby's is a leading global marketplace that offers pristine Hermès bags in the most popular colors, materials and sizes along with rare Himalayan and Limited Edition Hermès bags. Our handbag specialists are always sourcing the more desirable Hermès bags from collectors around the world. Sotheby's also sells incredible private collections that include one of a kind Hermès bags.
2. Flexibility
Sotheby's provides multiple ways to purchase bags including auction, online, and in person in New York, Hong Kong, Zurich, Paris and London. Sotheby's also offers a concierge service if you need assistance sourcing a specific Hermès bag that isn't available at auction or online.
3. Value
While Hermès bags in pristine condition sell at a premium to retail, Sotheby's has bags for purchase at auction and marketplace in a range of the most desirable colors and materials. Secondary marketplaces like Sotheby's allow a buyer to purchase a store fresh pristine Hermès bag with the original box and all plastic still on the hardware without waiting for a call from an Hermès sales associate. While it is possible to purchase a Hermès Bag at a boutique, it is hard to predict how long it will take. Additionally if you don't have an existing relationship at the store, it is even harder to pick the exact bag including size, color and hardware. In many cases you may be offered a Hermès bag that may not be your desired color or size. Buyers also come to Sotheby's since they want to purchase more than two Hermès bags in a year. While we encourage you to build a relationship with an Hermès Sales Associate, Sotheby's can save you time when purchasing a Hermès.
4. Discovery
One of the best parts of a global luxury marketplace is discovering unique one of a kind Hermès or rare limited edition Hermès bags that are no longer available at Hermès. Sotheby's curated selection changes regularly and each auction has a unique selection of Hermès bags. You are likely to discover something new to you from Hermès.
Buy and Sell an Hermès Bag at Sotheby's
Sotheby's always has a curated selection of the top Hermès bags available for immediate shipping. Sotheby's also sells Hermès bags at auction in New York, Paris, Zurich and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Birkin and Kelly bags in every sale in addition to other popular Hermès bags in pristine condition in the newest colors and classic neutrals. Sotheby's handbag sales include rare and limited edition Hermès bags in exotic materials, custom color combinations and even diamond hardware.
Prices for entry level Hermès bags range from $3,000 to $5,000 for the Herbag, Garden Party and Evelyne TPM. Prices for the most sought after Birkin and Kelly bags start at around $20,000 and can exceed $100,000 for the rarest and most desirable limited edition Birkin or Kelly bags.
- Explore upcoming handbag auctions in New York, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Hong Kong.
- Speak to a Salon Associate in New York, Zurich, London, Paris, or Hong Kong to schedule an appointment.
- Contact a Handbag Specialist about selling an Hermès bag or submit your item here for valuation.
Trust our worldwide network of leading handbag specialists from a globally renowned auction house established in 1744.
