A Complete Guide to Hermès Horseshoe Stamps and Special Order Bags

Hermès is known for its luxurious craftsmanship and exclusivity, offering some of the most coveted products in the fashion world. One of its most distinguished services is the Special Order (SO) program, marked by the highly sought-after Horseshoe Stamp (HSS). This stamp indicates that a bag is a bespoke creation, tailored specifically to the client’s personal preferences. Understanding the details of the Hermès Horseshoe Stamp and Special Order bags can elevate your knowledge of this luxury brand and its iconic pieces.

The Meaning Behind the Hermès Horseshoe Stamp

The Horseshoe Stamp, or HSS, is a unique marking placed near the Hermès logo on Special Order bags. Introduced over ten years ago, this discreet stamp is a symbol of exclusivity and luxury. Before the introduction of the HSS, Special Order bags did not have any identifying marks, making the stamp a significant addition to the brand’s history.

Special Order bags allow Hermès clients to customise a variety of elements of their bag, such as the leather type, colour, and hardware, resulting in a one-of-a-kind piece. This service is available to a select group of customers, often those with a long purchase history and a close relationship with the brand.

How to Acquire a Hermès Special Order Bag

Securing a Special Order bag from Hermès is an exclusive process, reserved for the brand’s most valued clients. These opportunities are usually offered twice a year, and clients can only access the service through an invitation. Once invited, clients are given the chance to meet with a specialist to discuss and design their custom bag.

Step-by-Step Process:

• Invitation: Clients are personally invited by Hermès to attend a Special Order appointment.
• Consultation: During the appointment, clients meet with an expert to discuss available customisation options.
• Design Selection: Clients choose the bag style, leather, size, hardware, colours, stitching, and even interior customisations.
• Approval and Production: Once the design is finalised and approved, the bag enters production, a process that can take several months or even years.
• Delivery: After completion, the bag is delivered to the client, bearing the exclusive Horseshoe Stamp.

Customisation Options for Special Order Bags

Clients enjoy the freedom to design their bags in various ways, ensuring that every detail is to their exact specifications. Popular customisation choices include:

• Bag Styles: Options include the Birkin, Kelly, and Constance bags, among others.
• Leather Types: Leather choices range from Togo, Clemence, and Epsom to more exotic options like Crocodile and Ostrich.
• Colours: Clients can choose from an extensive palette, including rare and seasonal colours.
• Hardware: Hardware choices include gold, palladium, brushed palladium, brushed gold, and rose gold.

Notable customisation features include:

• Bicolour and Tricolour Designs: Contrasting colours on different parts of the bag.
• Contrasting Stitching: A distinctive feature where stitching is made in a different colour for added flair.
• Exotic Leathers: Luxurious leathers such as Alligator, Ostrich, and Lizard.
• Personalised Hardware: Tailored hardware designs, including brushed gold and rose gold finishes.

The Value of Hermès Special Order Bags

The rarity and personalisation of Special Order bags significantly enhance their resale value. These bags, marked by the Horseshoe Stamp, are often worth more than regular Hermès bags due to their bespoke nature and limited production. While the cost of a Special Order bag is no higher than a regular Hermès bag when purchased directly from the store, its resale value can exceed that of standard models.

Factors that contribute to the value of these bags include:

• Rarity: The limited number of Special Order bags and their custom nature make them highly desirable.
• Craftsmanship: Hermès bags are renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship, using only the finest materials.
• Provenance: A bag’s history, especially if it was created for a notable person or includes a unique design, can increase its value.
• Condition: Like all luxury items, the condition of the bag plays a major role in its value, with well-maintained bags being more sought after.

Why Choose Xupes for Hermès Special Order Bags

At Xupes, we offer an exclusive selection of Hermès bags, including rare Special Order pieces. Our team of experts is skilled in sourcing these unique items and ensuring their authenticity. Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or sell a Special Order bag, Xupes provides a trusted and knowledgeable service.

What Sets Xupes Apart:

• Expertise: Our team has extensive knowledge of Hermès bags and the intricacies of Special Orders.
• Exclusive Access: Through our network of collectors and suppliers, we can source rare and sought-after Hermès pieces.
• Personalised Service: We provide tailored services to meet the individual needs of our clients, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Quality Assurance: Every bag we sell undergoes thorough authentication to guarantee its authenticity and condition.

Conclusion

Hermès Special Order bags, marked with the coveted Horseshoe Stamp, are the pinnacle of luxury and personalisation in the fashion world. The opportunity to design a bespoke Hermès bag allows clients to create a truly unique piece that reflects their personal style. With their rarity and the meticulous craftsmanship involved, Special Order bags often exceed their original price on the resale market, making them a valuable investment. Understanding the Horseshoe Stamp and the process of acquiring a Special Order bag will deepen your appreciation for Hermès’ commitment to exclusivity and craftsmanship.