The Hermès Kelly bag. The name itself conjures images of old Hollywood glamour, timeless elegance, and an exclusivity that borders on mythical. But the story of this iconic handbag begins not in the glitz and glamour of the silver screen, but in a more understated, yet equally significant year: 1957. It was then that the earliest known Hermès Kelly 20 was produced, a bag that would forever change the landscape of luxury accessories and become a coveted piece for collectors worldwide. This article delves into the fascinating history of the 1957 vintage Hermès Kelly bag, exploring its unique features, its enduring appeal, and the factors that contribute to its astronomical value in today's market.
The 1957 Kelly 20, unlike its later iterations, featured a mid-length shoulder strap, a detail that subtly differentiates it from the bags produced in subsequent years. This subtle difference, combined with its age and inherent rarity, makes it a particularly sought-after piece among serious collectors. The iconic round top-handle, a feature that has become synonymous with the Kelly bag, was already present in this early model, leading collectors to affectionately dub it a "pillbox" due to its charmingly compact and rounded shape. This design element, simple yet sophisticated, is a testament to the enduring design principles of Hermès: understated luxury and timeless elegance.
The bag's connection to Grace Kelly, the Hollywood princess, solidified its place in history. While the bag existed before its association with Kelly, it was her iconic use of the bag – famously shielding her pregnancy from paparazzi – that catapulted it to international fame, forever cementing its name and its legacy. This event, captured in photographs that continue to be circulated, transformed the Kelly bag from a beautiful handbag to a symbol of status, sophistication, and enduring style.
Hermès Kelly Bag Vintage Price: A Collector's Market
The price of a vintage Hermès Kelly bag, particularly one dating back to 1957, is not easily defined. It's a market driven by rarity, condition, leather type, hardware, and provenance. A 1957 Kelly in pristine condition, perhaps with its original dust bag and accompanying documentation, could command a price far exceeding that of a newer Kelly bag. Several factors influence the price:
* Leather: The type of leather used significantly impacts the value. Hermès uses a variety of leathers, including calfskin, Togo, Clemence, and the highly sought-after crocodile and alligator. A 1957 Kelly in crocodile, for example, would be exponentially more expensive than one made from calfskin. The condition of the leather is paramount – signs of wear, scratches, or discoloration will drastically reduce the value.
* Hardware: The hardware, typically gold or palladium plated, should be in excellent condition. Tarnishing or damage to the clasps, buckles, and stitching will affect the overall price. The original hardware, untouched and in its original finish, is highly valued.
* Rarity: The rarity of a specific Kelly bag adds to its desirability and price. A 1957 Kelly, being one of the earliest models, is inherently rare. Specific colours, limited edition releases, and unique features further increase the value.
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