Bring home the Birkin
An auction of 125 rare handbags will have tai-tais turning out in droves to secure a slice of haute couture history
Luxury handbags are serious collectibles that retain their value over time. And getting your hands on one has just become easier with Christie's first physical auction dedicated to the accessory.
The auction at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai will showcase 125 rare and highly sought after pre-owned bags. Previews for the auction will be held from November 21 to 23, with the auction on November 24.
The house's senior vice-president of handbags and accessories in Hong Kong, Matthew Rubinger, admits the catalogue is more focused on Hermès, but brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Bottega Veneta also feature.
"Most buyers will be collectors looking for a particular piece, something better than what they have now, or something they've never had before," says 26-year-old Rubinger. "They don't need the cash, but they want to curate their collections. They are looking for items that are rare, limited edition or in colours that are new or discontinued."
Rubinger had just a month to procure the handbags - no easy feat. But the Chappaqua, New York native has been dealing in handbags for more than 12 years and has sourced some gems.
Most of the bags for the upcoming sale, procured from Asia and Europe, are in immaculate condition. Standouts include a 25cm wide Birkin in a bright green bamboo hue (a new colour this year), while a 30cm Birkin in brilliant fuchsia called Braise is a rare Hermès shade.