Hermes bag Christie's 2018

When it comes to handbag investment, count on the Birkin to increase in value. Hard to purchase, exquisitely crafted, and coveted by the well-heeled, it can command stratospheric prices at auctions. Last year, a buyer forked out US$379,261 (S$510,000) for a matte white Himalaya Niloticus crocodile Birkin 30 at a Christie’s auction in Hong Kong, making it the most expensive handbag sold at such events. The price of a new Birkin ranges from US$10,000 to US$150,000.

The Himalaya, of which one or two is produced annually by Hermes, will again lead the charge in the Christie’s handbag and accessories sale in Hong Kong on May 30. The bag is a matte grey Niloticus crocodile Birkin 35, 5cm larger than last year’s eye-popper and features shades of grey to represent the colour of the mountain range. The starting price is US$70,000.

(Related: Hermes Birkin: 5 things to know about this luxury bag)

But there’s more in the cache, and more options for men – a response to an uptick in demand in this sector, according to Winsy Tsang, head of sale, handbags and accessories, Christie’s Asia. The sale includes products from Louis Vuitton and Louis Vuitton by Supreme, but Hermes bags dominate all around.

The Christie’s auction is on May 30, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, No. 1 HarbourRoad, Wanchai, Hong Kong.

(Related: A ride befitting of the Birkin)