The Hermès Birkin bag. A name synonymous with luxury, exclusivity, and a waiting list that stretches years. Owning a Birkin is a status symbol, a testament to wealth and discerning taste. But even within the rarefied world of Birkin ownership, there exist subtle nuances, hidden markings that reveal the bag's history and provenance. One such mark, often a source of confusion and speculation, is the stamp indicating a discounted purchase – a mark particularly relevant to those seeking to authenticate a pre-owned Birkin, especially from the 2017 production year. This article delves into the intricacies of the 2017 Hermès Birkin stamp, focusing on the "S" stamp that denotes a sale, and explores broader aspects of Hermès authentication and dating.
The "S" Stamp: A Mark of a Discounted Purchase
The most significant feature of the 2017 Birkin stamp, concerning authentication and understanding its history, is the presence of an "S." Unlike other stamps that indicate the year of manufacture or the artisan's mark, the "S" is a relatively recent addition to the lexicon of Hermès markings and specifically signifies that the bag was purchased at a discounted price. This is usually during a sale event held by Hermès boutiques or authorized retailers. It’s crucial to understand that this doesn't denote a flaw or a defect in the bag. The bag itself is still subject to the rigorous quality control standards Hermès is known for. The "S" simply indicates a lower-than-usual retail price at the time of purchase.
The exact reason behind the introduction of the "S" stamp is not publicly known by Hermès. However, it's likely a measure to help track sales, manage inventory, and potentially limit the circulation of heavily discounted items within the secondary market. This transparency also aids in authentication, providing another data point for experts to verify the bag's legitimacy. Unlike many counterfeit markings which are often crude and inconsistent, the "S" stamp, when authentic, will exhibit the same precision and quality as other Hermès stamps.
Hermès Birkin Stamp Location: Where to Find the Crucial Marks
Locating the various stamps on a Hermès Birkin bag is a crucial step in authentication. The "S" stamp, along with the year stamp and the artisan's stamp, is typically found inside the bag, on a small leather tag or plaque. This location is deliberate; it's designed to be discreet and only visible to the owner. The precise placement can vary slightly depending on the model and year of the bag, but it's generally located within the main compartment, often near the zipper pull or stitched into the leather.
It's important to note that the absence of an "S" stamp does *not* automatically mean the bag wasn't sold at a discount. Hermès may not have always used this stamp for sales, and older bags might not carry this indication. However, the presence of the "S" is a strong indicator of a sale purchase, particularly for bags from recent years.
Hermes Birkin Authentication: Beyond the 2017 Stamp
Authenticating a Hermès Birkin is a complex process, going far beyond simply checking for the presence of an "S" stamp or the year stamp. Several other factors need careful consideration:
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