The Picotin 18, also called the Picotin PM, is the size most shoppers end up chasing. In our current US tracking it makes up about 71% of Picotin listings, which matches what owners already know: it is small enough to stay neat on the arm and big enough for the basics.
Launched in 2002 and named after an old French measure of oats, the Picotin borrows its bucket shape from horse feed bags. The 18 is the smallest size that still works as a daily bag for most people: phone, small wallet, keys, and a few extras without much dead space. For the full family overview — all four sizes, leathers, and history — see the complete Picotin guide.
Specifications
| Attribute | Picotin 18 (PM) |
|---|---|
| Base Length | 18 cm (7.1 in) |
| Height | 19 cm (7.5 in) |
| Depth | 13.5 cm (5.3 in) |
| Handle Drop | ~11.5 cm (4.5 in) |
| Weight (empty) | ~400g (0.9 lb) |
| Closure | Leather strap + padlock |
| Interior | Unlined, no pockets |
| Base Feet | 4 metal studs |
| Carry Style | Hand or arm carry only |
The 18 refers to the base width in centimeters. Hermès calls this size "PM" (petit modele). It reads small, but the depth and height are what make it usable: the bag is narrow at the opening yet deep enough for the everyday things most people actually carry.
What Fits Inside a Picotin 18
The Picotin 18 is an essentials bag. Pack it for a normal city day, not a long commute or travel day. Here is what fits comfortably:
What Fits
- ✓ Any smartphone — iPhone Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy, etc.
- ✓ Compact wallet — card case, small bi-fold, Hermès Calvi
- ✓ Keys — fob and house keys, ideally in a key pouch
- ✓ AirPods or similar earbud case
- ✓ Small cosmetics — lipstick, hand sanitizer, mirror
- ✓ Sunglasses — in a soft pouch (hard case is tight)
What Doesn't Fit
- ✗ Water bottle — too tall, sticks out the top
- ✗ Tablet or Kindle — too tall for the bag
- ✗ Full-size wallet — only fits diagonally, protrudes
- ✗ Makeup pouch — takes up too much space
- ✗ Umbrella — even compact ones are too long
- ✗ Bulky sunglasses case — hard clamshell cases dominate the space
2026 Pricing
Recent US Hermès listings from April 2026 show the following Picotin 18 prices:
| Version | Current US Price | Latest observed |
|---|---|---|
| Picotin Lock 18 (Clemence) | $3,975 | April 7, 2026 |
| Picotin Lock 18 Éclat | $4,200 | February 2, 2026 |
| Picotin Lock 18 Pocket | $4,850 | March 11, 2026 |
For context, the standard Picotin 18 was $2,875 in 2019, $3,300 in 2024, $3,725 in mid-2025, and $3,975 in April 2026. Special versions climb faster. The Pocket sits much higher because of its extra construction, and exotic leathers are in another bracket entirely.
Picotin 18 vs 22: Which Size?
This is the most common Picotin question. Here's the direct comparison. For an even deeper look at how the two sizes differ in daily use, see the Picotin 18 vs 22 comparison guide.
| Picotin 18 (PM) | Picotin 22 (MM) | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 18 × 19 × 13.5 cm | 22 × 21 × 17 cm |
| Handle Drop | ~11.5 cm (4.5") | ~15 cm (6") |
| Weight (empty) | ~400g (0.9 lb) | ~500g (1.1 lb) |
| US Retail | $3,975 | $4,275 |
| Water Bottle | No | Yes (500ml) |
| Tablet/Kindle | No | Yes (iPad Mini) |
| Long Wallet | Tight, protrudes | Yes, easily |
| Shoulder Carry | No | Possible for petite frames |
Choose the 18 if...
- • You carry only essentials (phone, wallet, keys)
- • You love the mini/petite bag aesthetic
- • You want a lighter, more portable bag
- • You're petite and want proportional sizing
- • You value higher resale demand
Choose the 22 if...
- • You carry a water bottle, Kindle, or tablet
- • You need room for a full-size wallet
- • You want practical capacity for daily use
- • You're taller and prefer larger proportions
- • You don't want to downsize your wallet/items
Some people eventually buy both: the 18 for lighter days and the 22 for fuller ones. If you are choosing one, start with your daily loadout. The current US gap is $300, so capacity matters more than budget.
Materials & Leathers
The Picotin 18 is most commonly available in these leathers:
Taurillon Clemence (~80%)
Soft, pebbled bull calf. Develops a gentle slouch over time — this is the classic "relaxed Picotin" look. Scratch-resistant, ages beautifully with patina. The most common and beloved option.
Taurillon Maurice
Similar to Clemence but slightly firmer with finer grain. Holds shape better, ages with less slouch. A newer option for those who prefer a bit more structure.
Epsom (Rare)
Embossed calfskin. Very structured, highly scratch-resistant, lightweight. Holds its shape for years but doesn't have the soft, "cuddly" feel of Clemence. Rare for Picotin.
Exotics (Very Rare)
Ostrich, alligator, and crocodile versions exist but are extremely rare and expensive ($10,000+). Usually offered to VIP clients. The Picotin Touch combines exotic handles with Clemence body.
Resale Value
The Picotin 18 usually holds value well for a non-quota bag. In the resale market, these are the patterns that show up most often:
- Average retention: ~72% of retail value
- Popular colors (Noir, Gold, Etoupe): Often sell at 85-100%+ of current retail
- Excellent condition with box/receipt: $4,000-$5,500 typical range
- Limited editions (Cargo, So Black): Can exceed $6,000+
Classic neutrals usually perform best because they are the colors people hunt for first. Bright seasonal shades can still sell well, but they are more likely to trade below current retail once the initial drop passes.
Comfort & Carrying Experience
The Picotin 18 is hand-carry or arm-carry only. There is no shoulder strap, and there is no clean built-in way to add one.
Handle & Carry Style
- Handle drop: ~11.5 cm (4.5") — fits in hand or crook of elbow
- Two handles: Rolled leather, sturdy but comfortable
- Weight: Under 1 lb empty, typically under 2 lbs loaded
- No shoulder carry: Handles are too short for anyone except very petite children
Security Considerations
The padlock slows access, but it does not fully close the bag. The sides stay open. In crowds, keep it tucked in close and use a zip pouch for valuables.
Care & Maintenance
Leather Care
- Clemence: Wipe with soft dry cloth. Avoid water and harsh chemicals. Will develop natural slouch over time.
- Storage: Stuff with acid-free tissue when not in use. Store upright in dust bag.
- Handles: Consider Twilly scarves to protect from hand oils on light colors.
- Rain: Avoid! Clemence can spot if wet. Carry a protective cover for unexpected weather.
Interior Care
The Picotin is unlined, so the interior shows the raw suede side of the leather. Liquids can seep through, and pen marks are hard to lift once they set. If you use pouches or an insert, the inside stays much easier to manage.
Hardware
The padlock and feet will develop minor scratches with use — this is normal. The feet protect the base when you set the bag down. If hardware becomes loose or damaged, Hermès offers spa service for repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
Complete Picotin Guide →
All Picotin sizes, current pricing, leather options, and how the 18 fits into the full lineup.
Evelyne 23 Colors & Prices →
A practical crossbody alternative if you want more security and hands-free carry than the Picotin offers.
Mini Lindy Guide →
See how the Mini Lindy compares if you want a softer shape with a zip top and crossbody strap.
Garden Party Guide →
A larger casual tote with a flatter base and more day-to-day carrying room than the Picotin 18.