Hermes, the storied French luxury house, has long been synonymous with unparalleled craftsmanship and exclusivity.
While the brand’s women’s items, particularly the famed Birkin and Kelly bags, are well-known for their investment potential, Hermes for men’s line has great value retention and appreciation.
Let’s journey through the Hermes men’s collection, examining which garments hold value best and which might even increase over time.
From iconic leather goods to sophisticated timepieces and from artisanal leather sandals to impeccable cashmere sweaters, let’s uncover the secrets of Hermes’ old money appeal and investment potential.
Hermes Heart – Leather Goods
As Hermes’ legacy is built on leather craftsmanship, it’s in this category that we find some of the most promising investment pieces for men.
Haut a Courroies (HAC) – A Masculine Icon
Let’s start with the granddaddy of them all, the Haut à Courroies, or HAC a bag more than an accessory but a moment of Hermes history.
Originally designed to carry riding boots and saddles, the HAC predates even the famous Birkin.
The bag’s size ranges from 40cm to 55cm and is ideal for making powerful fashion statements thanks to its outstanding craftsmanship that instantly turns heads.
But beyond the aesthetic appeal, the HAC has remarkable investment potential.
As of 2023, a new HAC will set you back between £7,000 and £12,000, depending on size and leather choice.
And here’s where it gets interesting: in the resale market, these bags often command 120-150% of their retail price.
Moreover, if you’re lucky enough to snag one in an exotic skin you could be looking at 200-300% appreciation.
Fact – In 2021, a 50cm HAC in Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile sold at Christie’s for an eye-watering £162,500. While that’s an extreme example, it illustrates the heights these bags can reach.
But you don’t need to go exotic to see good returns.
The HAC in Barénia leather, a natural cowskin beloved for its ability to develop a rich patina over time, has seen a 180% increase in resale value over the past five years.
Imagine not just wearing a piece of history, but watching it gain value as it ages gracefully with you.
Kelly Depeches – Boardroom Ready
Now, let’s step into the boardroom with the Kelly Depeches, a briefcase-style bag that takes cues from the iconic Kelly bag, translating that elegance into a masculine form perfect for the modern executive.
Available in three sizes – 25, 34, and 38 cm – the price of Kelly Depeches ranges from £6,300 to £8,500 at retail in 2023.
In the resale market, these bags typically retain 90-110% of their value. But here’s a tip for the savvy investor: keep an eye out for discontinued colours.
A Kelly Depeches 34 in Vert Cypress, a colour no longer in production, has been fetching up to £11,000 in the secondary market – a premium of nearly 30% over the original price.
Imagine walking into your next big meeting, this sleek briefcase in hand, carrying your essential documents in style.
In reality, you’re holding social status and an appreciating asset, and that’s the power of the Hermes brand.
Cityhall Briefcase – A Hidden Gem
For those who prefer to fly a little under the radar while still making a statement, consider the Cityhall Briefcase.
Less well-known than its cousins, this bag has been quietly appreciating in value.
At £6,700 retail in 2023, the Cityhall typically resells for 85-95% of its original price – impressive retention for a leather good.
But here’s where it gets exciting: limited editions of this bag have shown significant appreciation.
The “Endless Road” design, for instance, has been known to command up to 120% of its original price on the secondary market.
Here’s an insider tip: only 12 pieces of the “Endless Road” Cityhall were produced for the UK market in 2019.
If you manage to get your hands on one of these rare pieces, you’re not just carrying a briefcase – you’re holding a collector’s item.
Hermes Belts – The Subtle Flex
As we move from bags to smaller accessories, let’s talk about one of the most iconic Hermes pieces a man can own: the H belt.
The Classic – 32mm Reversible Belt Kit
The Hermes belt is a masterclass in understated luxury.
At a glance, it might not scream ‘Hermes,’ but those in the know will immediately recognize the distinctive H buckle.
In 2023, you’re looking at £570 for the strap and £640 for a classic buckle.
While these belts generally retain 80-90% of their retail value – impressive for an accessory – it’s in the limited editions and special designs where we see real appreciation potential.
Take, for example, the “Guilloche” buckle design introduced in 2020.
In just two years, this buckle has shown a 15% appreciation in testament to how Hermes can take a classic design and, with a subtle twist, create a new valuable piece.
Rare Buckles – The Collector’s Prize
For the serious collector and investor, rare and limited edition belt buckles offer some of the most exciting opportunities in the Hermes men’s line.
Cast your mind back to 2011, when Hermes released a solid gold “Collier de Chien” buckle in a limited run of 500 pieces.
Originally priced at £6,000, these buckles now command between £15,000 and £18,000 on the secondary market – a 200-300% increase in just over a decade.
Or consider the sterling silver “Touareg” buckle.
Priced at £720 when it was released in 2010, these artisanal belts now fetch up to £2,500 at auction, an appreciation of nearly 250%.
Hermes Footwear – Step in the Right Direction
As we move down our sartorial journey, let’s not overlook what’s on your feet.
Hermes footwear, while perhaps not as famous as their leather goods, has a unique blend of equestrian chic style and investment potential.
John Lobb for Hermes – When Two Legends Meet
Hermes’ ownership of the renowned shoemaker John Lobb has resulted in some exceptional footwear that not only feels incredible on your feet but also holds its value remarkably well.
Take, for instance, the Limited Edition William II boots released in 2018 at a retail price of £1,500.
These boots, in unworn condition, are selling now for between £2,200 and £2,500 – an appreciation of up to 66% in just five years.
But the real star of this collaboration is the Hermes x John Lobb “Art of Patina” Oxford.
Only 100 pairs of these exquisite shoes were made in 2017, each priced at £1,800.
Today, if you’re lucky enough to find a pair, you’re looking at a value of £3,000 to £3,500, nearly double the original price.
The Izmir Sandal – Casual Luxury
For something a little more casual but no less luxurious, consider the Izmir sandal.
At first glance, you might not think of sandals as an investment piece, but Hermes has a way of surprising us.
In 2023, a pair of calfskin Izmir sandals will set you back £530, while the crocodile version comes in at £1,720.
Generally, these sandals retain 70-80% of their value – impressive for footwear.
But once again, it’s the limited editions where we see true appreciation.
Fact – In 2019, Hermes produced a limited run of 50 pairs of Izmir sandals in Niloticus crocodile, in the colour “Miel.”
Originally priced at £3,200, a pair of these rare sandals sold at auction in 2022 for £5,800, an 81% increase in just three years.
Hermes Ready-to-Wear
As we move to the ready-to-wear section of our Hermes journey, we find ourselves in a realm where the investment potential is less consistent but where exceptions can yield remarkable returns.
Leather Jackets – Wearable Investments
Hermes leather jackets are not just garments but wearable art, such is the case of the Cloudberry Lambskin Jacket, priced at £14,300 in 2023.
While it might seem steep, these jackets maintain 70-75% of their value in resale, an impressive retention for a piece of clothing.
But for true investment potential, look to the limited editions. The “Grand Manège” Bomber Jacket, released in a limited run of 200 pieces in 2018, tells an interesting story.
Originally priced at £11,500, these jackets now fetch between £14,000 and £16,000 in pristine condition – an appreciation of up to 39% in five years.
Knitwear – Soft Gold
Hermes knitwear, particularly their cashmere pieces, offers a unique blend of luxury and potential appreciation.
The Chaine d’Ancre Cashmere Sweater, priced at £2,560 in 2023, typically holds 60-65% of its value – not bad for a sweater.
But once again, limited editions show the real potential, like the “Astrologie Nouvelle” Cashmere Sweater, released in a worldwide limited edition of 100 pieces in 2020.
Originally priced at £3,200, these sweaters are now valued between £4,500 and £5,000 – an increase of up to 56% in just three years.
Fact – Hermes produces only 5-10 pieces of each knitwear design for the UK market per season, an intentional scarcity that contributes to value retention and appreciation.
Hermes Watches – Investing in Time
Our journey through the world of Hermes investments concludes with perhaps the most traditional men’s luxury item, the wristwatch.
Hermes may not have the horological history of some Swiss brands, but their timepieces are making waves in all circles, from fashion connoisseurs to investment collectors alike.
Hermes H08 – The New Kid on the Block
Introduced in 2021, the Hermes H08 represents the brand’s serious entry into the luxury sports watch market.
The titanium model, retailing at £5,000 in 2023, is currently trading at 90-95% of its retail price in the secondary market – impressive for a relatively new model.
But it’s the limited editions that shine, like the Blue Titanium H08, limited to 500 pieces and retailed at £5,600 but already trading at £6,200-£6,500 in the secondary market – an appreciation of up to 16% in just two years.
Imagine checking the time on your limited edition H08, knowing that the watch on your wrist isn’t just telling time, but appreciating in value with each passing minute.
Slim d’Hermes – Elegance That Appreciates
For those who prefer a more classical style, the Slim d’Hermes line offers elegance and investment potential.
The Slim d’Hermes Quantième Perpétuel, priced at £33,000 in 2023, maintains 85-90% of its value – remarkable for a complicated watch from a non-specialist brand.
But the real star is the limited edition Slim d’Hermes “L’heure Impatiente.”
Released in 2017 in a limited run of 000 pieces and priced at £23,000, these watches are now valued between £30,000 and £35,000, an appreciation of up to 52% in six years.
Fact – The Slim d’Hermes GMT, introduced in 2020, has appreciated by 15% in just two years, outperforming many established Swiss watch brands in the same period.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through the world of Hermes men’s items, one thing becomes clear: while not every Hermes purchase will appreciate in value, the brand offers unique opportunities for the man who is both a connoisseur of fine things and a savvy investor.
From the iconic HAC bag that could double in value, to the limited edition watch that appreciates with time, from the belt buckle that’s worth its weight in gold to the cashmere sweater that’s as warm as it is valuable – Hermes offers a range of items that not only elevate your style but could also appreciate your portfolio.
However, it’s crucial to remember that investing in luxury goods requires knowledge, patience, and a bit of luck.
Limited editions, discontinued colours, and unique collaborations often drive the highest returns.
But even items that don’t significantly appreciate will retain their intrinsic value through Hermes’ unparalleled quality and timeless design.
The true Hermes man understands that the value of these items goes beyond mere monetary appreciation.
Each piece tells a story – of craftsmanship passed down through generations, of materials sourced with the utmost care, of designs that have stood the test of time.
When you invest in Hermes, you’re not just buying a product; you’re buying into a legacy.
Consider the HAC bag, crafted by a single artisan over many hours. Or the limited edition “Astrologie Nouvelle” sweater, one of only 100 in the world.
These aren’t just accessories or garments; they’re wearable art, each with the potential to become a future heirloom.
As you curate your Hermes collection, remember to balance potential appreciation with personal enjoyment. Choose pieces that resonate with your style and lifestyle.
A Cityhall briefcase that appreciates in value is excellent, but it’s even better if it’s also the perfect companion for your daily work life.
In the end, the greatest return on your Hermes investment may not be financial at all.
It might be the confidence you feel when you fasten that H belt, the satisfaction of knowing the history behind your Slim d’Hermes watch, or the pleasure of passing down your well-loved HAC to the next generation.
The Hermes man is more than just a consumer of luxury goods. He’s a custodian of craftsmanship, a connoisseur of quality, and yes, potentially a savvy investor.
But above all, he’s someone who understands that true luxury is about more than price tags and profit margins. It’s about the joy of owning and using beautifully crafted items that stand the test of time – both in style and in value.
So, as you consider your next Hermes purchase, whether it’s a classic piece or a limited edition, remember: you’re not just buying a luxury item.
You’re investing in a piece of history, a work of art, and a legacy of excellence. And that, gentlemen, is an investment that always appreciates.
Styling Beyond Hermes
Before you go, here’s one of the best-kept secrets in men’s styling circles, a secret that only a few expert image consultants know or are willing to share:
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