The Haut à Courroies (HAC) is one of Hermès’ most iconic models—renowned as the original inspiration for the Birkin bag.
In this article, we’ll explore the history and timeless appeal of the HAC, along with helpful tips for those considering a purchase.
You’ll also find up-to-date pricing information, popular color options, and discontinued models, making this a complete guide to one of Hermès’ most storied bags.
While the Birkin is often the first bag that comes to mind when people think of Hermès, it was actually inspired by the Haut à Courroies—the timeless classic we’re featuring today. This iconic design traces its origins back to 1892.
Hermès, which began as a harness and saddlery workshop in 1837, introduced its very first bag—the Haut à Courroies—in 1892.
Designed specifically to carry equestrian gear, the Haut à Courroies features a tall, trapezoidal silhouette that sets it apart.
Each bag is meticulously handcrafted by Hermès artisans using high-quality, durable leather, making it a timeless piece that can be cherished for many years.
The Hermès Haut à Courroies is a highly esteemed item cherished by numerous wealthy clients and dedicated Hermès collectors.
One reason for its popularity is its simple yet sophisticated design, which possesses a timeless beauty that remains unaffected by fleeting trends.
While some design elements are shared with the Birkin, the Haut à Courroies is favored by those who prioritize practicality, as it offers greater carrying capacity.
Additionally, the exceptional craftsmanship of Hermès artisans ensures high quality and durability. The leather used ages beautifully over time, developing a rich patina that deepens the owner’s attachment with continued use.
Moreover, the Haut à Courroies retains strong value in the resale market. Many users are attracted by this investment aspect, which contributes to its sustained long-term popularity.
The Haut à Courroies has been offered in a total of eight sizes, but some discontinued models are only available on the secondary (pre-owned) market. Below is a summary of the features of each size.
The Haut à Courroies comes in a wide range of sizes, so it’s understandable that some people might find it difficult to choose. To help with this, we have summarized recommended sizes based on different uses below.
When choosing a Haut à Courroies, color selection is a very important factor. Popular colors tend to command premium prices, but many people may wonder, “What exactly are the popular colors for the Haut à Courroies?”
Here, we will take a closer look at the popular colors for women and men, as well as rare and discontinued colors that hold high investment value.
As explained so far, some Haut à Courroies models have already been discontinued and are no longer available at official stores. However, they can sometimes be found in the secondary (pre-owned) market, where their rarity often commands premium prices.
With that in mind, we will now provide a summary of the prices for each Haut à Courroies size, noting that prices for discontinued models reflect the current secondary market value.
As of the time of this article update, the official retail price for the Autocloire is not published by Hermès.
Please refer to the following as a reference price range observed in the market.
Actual transaction prices may vary depending on material, condition, and color.
The price of the Haut à Courroies varies depending on factors such as the material used and the specific collection.
For instance, when purchasing from an official Hermès boutique, models made with standard leathers like Togo or Clemence are relatively more affordable.
On the other hand, models made with exotic leathers such as crocodiles are significantly more expensive.
Additionally, the Haut à Courroies is available in special collections such as Cosmos, Western, Cargo, and Rock, which are generally priced higher than the standard models.
The Hermès Haut à Courroies enjoys a devoted following, yet due to its limited availability, certain models—especially discontinued versions and the standard 40 cm size—can command prices above retail in the secondary (pre-owned) market.
In this section, we will highlight the key features of Haut à Courroies models that tend to attract premium prices, as well as important points to consider when evaluating the Haut à Courroies from an investment perspective.
First, discontinued sizes such as 28 cm, 32 cm, and 36 cm often fetch premium prices due to their limited availability in the market.
Limited-edition colors with low production numbers, as well as special-order features such as customized hardware, also tend to drive up the price of the Haut à Courroies.
In addition, Haut à Courroies bags made with exotic leathers like crocodile are highly sought after and often come with premium pricing because of their scarcity.
You May Also Like：HAC Limited Editions
If you are considering purchasing a Haut à Courroies from an investment perspective, it is recommended to keep the following points in mind.
Select models that maintain their quality well over long-term use.
For instance, models crafted from materials such as the following could be suitable choices.
Choose popular sizes in classic colors.
The following sizes are considered popular.
The following are considered classic colors.
It is also important to retain accessories—including the box, dust bag, and receipt—when purchasing with investment in mind.
Here is an introduction to the Haut à Courroies we currently offer at XIAOMA.
※The availability status is as of the time this article was updated.
The Haut à Courroies Cosmos is a limited edition model that debuted on the runway during the Spring/Summer 2019 men’s wear collection.
Its beautiful multicolor design is inspired by celestial bodies.
Product details：Haut à Courroies HAC 40 Cosmos Jaune de Naples (9O) Bleu Nuit (2Z) Togo Brushed Palladium D (2019)
The Haut à Courroies Western is one of the rare and highly popular limited edition models within the Haut à Courroies collection.
It features understated yet beautiful embroidery patterns that can be enjoyed by its owners.
Product details：Haut à Courroies HAC 40 Western Ebene (46) Togo Palladium hardware Z (2021)
This is a 40 cm Haut à Courroies featuring a unique diagonal stripe pattern.
The combination of canvas material and leather makes it a lightweight and highly practical model for everyday use.
Product details：Haut à Courroies HAC 40 Black (89) Canvas Evercolor Palladium hardware Y (2020)
Limited edition Haut à Courroies models like those introduced here are also covered in detail in the following article.
You May Also Like：HAC Limited Editions
At XIAOMA, a specialty Hermès boutique, our experienced staff—who have specialized in Hermès products—will recommend the perfect Haut à Courroies for you.
All items we handle are carefully authenticated by skilled experts.
Each authentication certificate comes with a 100% money-back guarantee.
▶︎Discover the Haut à Courroies collection at XIAOMA here
The Hermès Haut à Courroies is a historically significant piece, known as the Maison’s very first bag, and it remains highly sought after by collectors.
When choosing your own, we recommend considering whether it can neatly hold your daily essentials and whether it fits your intended lifestyle and usage.
Ideally, it's best to see and handle the bag in person before making a purchase.
At XIAOMA, we offer a wide selection of Haut à Courroies models, so we invite you to visit one of our stores and find the one that's perfect for you.
