Why Hermès Exotic Bags Are So Expensive and Highly Coveted

Here’s a closer look at the meticulous process behind these iconic bags.

A Controlled Supply Chain: From Farm to Atelier

Hermès maintains complete control over its materials, ensuring the highest quality at every stage. For example, the company owns a farm in Florida dedicated to raising Alligator mississippiensis, a species known for its smooth, rectangular belly scales.

In addition to Florida, Hermès sources crocodile skins from farms in the following countries. Each type of skin has its own look and feel:

• Crocodile Porosus (in Australia): The most sought-after. Its square belly scales and tiny round side scales give it a super refined texture.
• Crocodile Niloticus (in Zimbabwe): Bigger square belly scales, paired with slightly larger side scales.
• Alligator Mississippiensis (Florida): More rectangular belly scales with small oval ones on the sides.

Each skin is carefully inspected to ensure it meets Hermès’ exacting standards. Only the soft underside (the belly) of the reptile is used, as the back skin is too rough and often scarred.

The Craftsmanship: Precision and Patience

Crafting an Hermès exotic bag is a labor-intensive process that starts at the reptile skins table. Skilled artisans inspect the skins for imperfections and then cut the pieces by hand—a step necessary due to the fragility of the material.

Here’s how the process unfolds:

1. Pattern Matching: 
   Crocodiles and alligators have unique patterns, much like human fingerprints. It takes time and expertise to find three matching skins for a single bag.
2. Polishing:
   Hermès achieves the signature glossy finish not with varnish but by polishing the skin with agate stone. This preserves the natural texture and shine of the skin but makes the bag non-waterproof.
3. Assembly:
   Every piece is hand-stitched by artisans, who undergo years of training to work with exotic skins.

Large bags, such as the 55cm Birkin, are especially rare because crocodiles large enough to produce flawless skins are difficult to find.

Exclusivity and Value

The combination of rare materials and careful craftsmanship means that Hermès exotic bags are extremely exclusive. This exclusivity drives demand and, in turn, increases their value over time. For example, in 2006, a 32cm Kelly in Crocodile porosus was priced at $19,600, while the same bag in alligator sold for $16,700. Today, those prices have more than doubled, with certain pieces becoming highly sought-after investments.

Explore Our Rare Hermès Exotics

We take pride in finding these treasures and connecting them with their new owners.

If you’d like to explore our current collection of Hermès exotics, take a look below—maybe you find what you're looking for.