History of the Hermès Picotin
The origins of the Hermès brand can be traced back to 1837, when it was established as a creator of equestrian equipment for carriage businesses and French noblemen. The first Hermès customer was the horse, but as time evolved, Hermès became a global luxury fashion house specializing in a wide range of high-end products. The Hermès Picotin takes inspiration from Hermès's equestrian origins. Introduced in 2002, the Hermès Picotin bag is a bucket-style bag inspired by horse feeding bags. Unlike other Hermès bags, conventionally named after females, "Picotin" directly translates to a measurement unit used to portion a horse's daily ration of oats. The Hermès Picotin embodies the brand's rich history, and its practical design makes it a desirable everyday bag.
Hermès Picotin Sizes + more
The Hermès Picotin bag comes in various sizes, with the Hermès Picotin 18 (PM) being the most coveted choice. However, Hermès also produces the larger Hermès Picotin 22 (MM) and Hermès Picotin 26 (GM). Given the success and demand for mini bags, Hermès created a Micro Hermès Picotin measuring 14 cm. This Hermès Picotin is crafted using exclusive embossed leather with a pattern of Hermès horseshoe motifs shaped like flowers. The Micro Hermès Picotin has no bottom studs, making it softer and more minimalistic.
The Hermès Picotin is a bucket shape bag with an open top, providing easy access to all your essentials while on the go. The Hermès Picotin closes with a signature Kelly lock, ensuring your belongings are kept safe and adding elegance to an otherwise casual bag. The bag is crafted in Hermès Retourne style, where the bag is constructed inside out, making its corners perfectly rounded. The Picotin's interior is unlined, making the bag very lightweight. The bottom of the Hermès Picotin bag has four protective metal feet, reinforcing the bags' durability and structure even when empty.
The Hermès Picotin bag is made from durable and scratch-resistant Epsom and Clemence leather. The two leather handles of the Picotin Hermès are attached to the body of the bag using the hand-sewn saddle stitch, which is more durable than a machine lock stitch, a testament to the quality of Hermès craftsmanship.
Hermès Picotin Limited Editions
The Hermès Picotin Bag is known for its simple and functional design. But for those seeking something a little more unique, Hermès occasionally releases limited edition Picotin bags. Some limited edition Hermès Picotins are made with exotics such as ostrich or crocodile, and some have multiple colors. These limited edition variations are difficult to purchase and also sell on the secondary market for larger premiums. The Hermès Picotin Cargo is one popular limited edition due to it's exterior pockets and lightweight canvas material. It the perfect summer bag for casual weekends.
Hermès Picotin Price
The Hermès Picotin bag is an accessible price range compared to the more popular Birkin or Hermès Kelly. A leather Hermès Picotin 18 retails for about $3,000 and a store fresh version sells for about $4,500-$5,500 depending on the color. An older leather Hermès Picotin bag sells for closer to $4,000 and below. Unlike some highly coveted Hermès bags which require waiting lists, the Hermès Picotin Bag provides customers with an entry point into the world of Hermès. As a non-quota style, the Hermès Picotin is a popular choice to build a profile within the brand as it can potentially open doors to obtaining quota pieces like a Birkin or Kelly bag.
Buying and Selling an Hermès Picotin at Sotheby's
Sotheby's can assist with buying or selling a Picotin. Sotheby's has a curated selection of Picotin bags available for immediate purchase. Sotheby's also offers Picotin bags at auction and often at No Reserve. Expect to find the Picotin 18 and Picotin 22 inClemence leather in the most popular neutral colors. Shop the newest Hermès colors with recent date stamps, limited edition versions and in exotic materials. Explore upcoming handbag auctions across the globe or speak to a Salon Associate in New York, Zurich or Hong Kong to schedule an appointment to view a Picotin.
Trust our worldwide network of leading handbag specialists from a globally renowned auction house with a 280 year history.
