Hermès HAC Birkin 45 Bags

The coveted Hermes Birkin HAC 45 is an ultra-rare, discontinued shoulder Birkin style that was only available as a special order for VIP clients. With dimensions of 45cm wide by 30cm high and 20cm deep, this Birkin HAC 45 features longer handles allowing it to be carried on the shoulder. Known as one of the most exclusive Hermes bags ever made, this special order HAC commands a huge premium in the secondhand market due to its rarity and versatility as the ultimate Hermes travel bag.

Hermes

Vintage Natural Ardennes HAC Haut à Courroies Birkin 45 Gold Hardware, 1999

$15900
Very Good Ⓘ
United States

About The Hermes Hac birkin 45

The Hermes Birkin HAC 45 has its origins in the classic Haut a Courroies bag, which the iconic Birkin was later modeled after. HAC bags were designed as practical saddle bags to hold riding boots and gear, featuring short handles and a narrow rectangular shape. When Hermes created the Birkin in 1984 for actress Jane Birkin, they took inspiration from the HAC but increased the handle height to make it better suited as an everyday handbag.

The Birkin HAC 45 pays homage to the original HAC style but with the luxurious trappings of the Birkin. This extremely rare model was only available as a special order for elite Hermes VIP clients. Very few were ever produced, making the Birkin HAC 45 one of the most exclusive Hermes bag styles in existence. Its defining feature is the extended shoulder straps that enable the oversized 45cm wide bag to be worn on the shoulder.

Owners praise the Birkin HAC 45 as the ultimate Hermes weekender or travel bag. The full leather lining and large size make it substantially heavier than a normal Birkin, but the long shoulder straps distribute the weight comfortably. As a hand-held bag, the bottom width of 45cm demands that it be set down versus carried for long periods. Celebrities like Cindy Crawford have been spotted with the coveted Birkin HAC 45.

Since being discontinued years ago, the Birkin HAC 45 has achieved legendary status among Hermes collectors. Examples that turn up at auction or consignment demand premium pricing in the five figures. The rarity and exclusivity of this special order Birkin style will only increase its desirability over time. For the few owners worldwide, the Birkin HAC 45 represents the pinnacle of Hermes craftsmanship and the ultimate expression of discreet luxury travel.