Hermès Birkin 35 — Himalaya Crocodile

The Hermès Birkin 35 in Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile is the most coveted and valuable handbag in the world. Produced in vanishingly small quantities by Hermès’s most skilled artisans in Paris, the Himalaya Birkin consistently achieves record prices at auction — with exceptional examples selling for over $500,000 at Christie’s and Sotheby’s.

The Himalaya colourway — named for its resemblance to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountain range — is achieved through a painstaking dyeing process applied to Niloticus crocodile skin. Each bag requires over 18 hours of skilled handwork and is unique in its precise gradation of colour.

Bag Specifications

Model: Birkin 35
Material: Niloticus Crocodile
Colourway: Himalaya
Hardware: 18ct white gold with diamond pavé
Dimensions: 35 x 25 x 18 cm
Origin: Handcrafted in Paris, France

Investment Value

The Himalaya Birkin has appreciated by over 500% in the past decade, outperforming gold, the S&P 500 and most traditional asset classes. Christie’s Hong Kong sale in 2017 achieved $379,261 for a single example — a world record at the time.

Rarity & Exclusivity

The Himalaya Birkin is not available for purchase through conventional retail channels. Hermès allocates these pieces exclusively to their most valued clients, typically requiring a significant purchase history at a single boutique. Fewer than 10 examples are produced each year worldwide.

Authentication & Provenance

Every Hermès Birkin is accompanied by its original box, dust bag and receipt. For secondary market purchases, authentication by a specialist such as Entrupy or Real Authentication is strongly recommended. Provenance documentation significantly enhances value at auction.

Asking Price: $280,000