How to authenticate a genuine Hermes bag

Hermes handbags are among the most sought-after fashion accessories. They are entirely handmade from start to finish by one master craftsman and made out of only the finest materials.

Although only a Hermes shop can definitely guarantee authenticity here are some basic hints to help determine if a Hermes bag is authentic:

Materials

Hermès only uses high quality leathers and exotic skins. Types range from the luxurious Togo and Clemence leather which have a softer feel and can relax over time to the more durable and rigid Epsom.

Blind stamp

The blind stamp shows the year of manufacture and the craftsman. The stamp can be placed in different spots and font and font size have not been consistent through the years. Note that not all authentic Hermes bags have blind stamps.

The blind stamp is a letter ranging from A to Z in a circle or square or without any geometrical shape depending on the year of manufacture. Next to this stamp there should be a craftsman ID which is usually represented by a number.

Stitching

Hermes stitch lines should be flawless, as every Hermes bag is handmade and hand sewn. There shouldn’t be any stitches noticeably out of place, out of line, crooked seams, or irregular patterns.

Lock

Regarding Hermes bags that come with a lock there are variations of lock imprints that Hermes has used over the years. The font will however always be clean and crisp, the lock number will match the number on the keys and with exotic leather bags the lock will be covered in the same exotic leather.

Hardware

Hardware on Hermes bags are always a genuine precious metal, usually either palladium or plated gold. The hardware also features small markings to indicate it is a precious metal. The metal on the handbags is thus heavier than a normal metal accent found on a less expensive handbag brand. The use of precious metals also means that the metal on an authentic Hermes handbag will not tarnish.

Bag Shape

When standing the bag should be neat and pronounced without any slumping or swelling in places. The handles should also stand straight

Toggle

Genuine toggles should turn smoothly when you twist them. Toggles should feel heavy and should not feel stiff when turning.

Lining

The material will always be of a high quality and usually made from similar leather to the exterior. Most Birkins bags for example are lined in chevre leather, goatskin, which is grained and not smooth.

Zippers

Hermes make their own zippers with the Hermes name on them. There are several variations of zippers that Hermes has used over the years. They vary depending on the style and year of manufacture. However, the zipper pull should be horizontal to the teeth and it should not hang down.

Logo

The logo is a stamp on the bag that reads “Hermes Paris Made in France”. This logo is featured in a delicate and neat font that is not affected by the texture of the leather and it is always embossed onto the material. On many fake Hermes bags, the logo will look irregular, big, or stocky. Make sure the logo on the bag is properly centered without being uneven, lopsided, or crooked in any way.

No Authenticity Card

Hermès bags never have them so a Hermes bag with an authenticity card is a fake.

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