Beyond the Birkin: Hermès Icons Lead a Summer Luxury Auction

Luxury collectors know that Hermès is more than a fashion house—it's one of the few brands whose handbags have become true collectibles. With craftsmanship rooted in nearly two centuries of leatherworking, Hermès pieces continue to command attention on the secondary market for their exceptional quality, limited production, and enduring appeal.

That legacy takes center stage on August 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM CDT, when Vogt Auction presents its Summer Luxury Estates sale. The auction brings together exceptional property from the collections of San Antonio philanthropist Diana Destine Sandefer Denman, Oklahoma businessman Robert "Bob" Funk, and Boerne attorney David J. Arata. While the catalog spans fine jewelry, watches, decorative arts, automobiles, and fine art, one category stands above the rest: an impressive selection of Hermès handbags that showcases several of the maison's most celebrated designs.

The Story Behind Hermès
Founded in Paris in 1837 as a maker of harnesses and saddlery, Hermès built its reputation on meticulous hand craftsmanship long before entering the world of luxury fashion. That equestrian heritage remains evident today, with every handbag still crafted by a single artisan using traditional techniques that can take many hours to complete.

Unlike many luxury brands, Hermès deliberately limits production, making its most sought-after bags difficult to acquire through boutiques alone. As a result, collectors increasingly turn to the secondary market, where desirable colors, rare materials, and well-preserved vintage examples often generate intense bidding.

The Summer Luxury Estates auction offers collectors the opportunity to pursue several of Hermès' signature designs, each representing a different chapter in the brand's history.

A Pair of Exceptional Birkins
No Hermès auction would be complete without the Birkin, arguably the world's most recognizable luxury handbag.

Leading the selection is a Hermès Birkin 35 in Gris Tourterelle Clemence leather (Lot 5), dating to 2008. Finished with palladium hardware and preserved in excellent condition, the neutral gray tone makes this an exceptionally versatile example of one of Hermès' most coveted designs. Complete with its dust bags, lock, and keys, it reflects the completeness collectors often seek. 

Estimate: $14,000 - $20,000

Collectors will also find a striking 2016 Birkin 35 in Blue Togo leather (Lot 187). The vibrant blue color paired with durable Togo leather gives this piece a contemporary feel while maintaining the timeless silhouette that has defined luxury handbags for decades. Third-party authenticated and in excellent condition, it represents another compelling opportunity for buyers looking for an investment-quality Birkin. 

Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000

While the Birkin often commands the headlines, seasoned Hermès enthusiasts know the Constance has developed an equally devoted following. Introduced in 1959, the bag is instantly recognizable by its oversized "H" clasp and clean, structured profile.

One standout in the auction is a 2020 Constance 18 in Blue Frida Swift leather (Lot 191). Accompanied by its original box and booklet and showing virtually no signs of wear, the vibrant blue hue perfectly complements the polished palladium hardware. Smaller Constance models have become increasingly desirable for collectors who appreciate understated luxury with unmistakable Hermès design. 

Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000

A Vintage Kelly with Character
Few handbags carry as much history as the Kelly. Originally introduced as the Sac à Dépêches in the 1930s, it became forever associated with Princess Grace Kelly after she famously used one to shield herself from photographers, prompting Hermès to officially rename the bag in 1977.

This auction features a particularly distinctive example: a Rare Vintage Kelly Sellier 28 (Lot 232) from 1987. Crafted in beige and navy crinoline with navy leather trim and gold hardware, the bag offers collectors something beyond the traditional monochromatic Kelly. Complete with its strap, lock, keys, dust bag, and box, this vintage piece combines rarity, elegance, and timeless design in a way that appeals to both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. 

Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000

The Everyday Luxury of the Evelyne
Not every Hermès icon is formal. Originally designed in the late 1970s as an equestrian carryall, the Evelyne has become one of the brand's most practical everyday bags.

The auction includes an Evelyne II PM in taupe Clemence leather (Lot 34) from 2007. Its understated color, comfortable crossbody design, and signature perforated "H" make it an excellent example of the quiet luxury aesthetic that has made the model increasingly popular. For collectors seeking an accessible yet unmistakably Hermès piece, the Evelyne offers timeless appeal with everyday functionality. 

Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000

Although Vogt Auction's Summer Luxury Estates sale also features remarkable jewelry, fine watches, designer accessories, fine wine, decorative arts, and even a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, the Hermès handbags tell perhaps the most compelling story. Together, they trace the evolution of one of the world's most respected luxury houses; from the timeless elegance of the Kelly to the enduring desirability of the Birkin, the refined sophistication of the Constance, and the practical charm of the Evelyne.

For collectors, these handbags represent more than status symbols. They are handcrafted works of design history, celebrated for their rarity, artistry, and remarkable staying power. Whether you're searching for a classic investment piece or simply appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, the Hermès offerings in this Summer Luxury Estates auction provide a rare opportunity to acquire icons that continue to define luxury generation after generation.

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