Must second-hand bags be ranked SA? The new trend of the vintage market in 2023: Rank B items with traces of age are more popular

In the past, when many vintage lovers were choosing vintage treasures, in addition to being concerned about whether the vintage items would retain their value and whether the vintage CHANEL items had card stickers, they also tended to choose high-rank (Rank SA or A) and nearly new vintage items. However, there is a new trend in the vintage market recently, with vintage bags with Rank AB or B and signs of use becoming more popular.

According to a report released this year by The Real Real, a US second-hand luxury goods trading platform, the transaction records of high-ranking (Rank SA or A) second-hand bags have dropped by an average of 33%. On the contrary, more people are buying more affordable Rank AB or B luxury goods.

Rating of used item condition

The second-hand market generally rates second-hand items to help consumers understand the status of the items. The ratings are generally divided into the following six categories:

SA: Near new, in excellent condition.
A: Only minor signs of use, in good condition.
AB: Minor signs of use or wear, standard condition.
B: General signs of use or wear and tear, with obvious stains.
BC: Obvious damage and stains, can be used normally.
C: Severely damaged and stained, but does not affect use.

Second-hand bags are not the same as second-hand bags

For second-hand novices, picking high-ranked handbags is the simplest and safest shopping indicator, but the reason behind this mentality may be due to a lack of understanding of "second-hand".

First of all, you should know that not all second-hand bags are "second-hand". The items that can be called "second-hand" are all products that are 20 years old. The brand, the designer of the product, the details of the product, whether the style has been discontinued, etc. are all important factors in judging the value of the item in the second-hand market.

Traces add a retro feel

In the past, handbag fans tended to pursue "perfection", but since last year, used bags with signs of use have become more popular. According to a report by the New York Times, some second-hand fans deliberately look for worn-out Hermès second-hand bags in order to create a more relaxed atmosphere. A report by the American second-hand trading platform The Real Real pointed out that the sales of handbags with obvious signs of use, worn corners, and average condition have increased sharply since last year.

Many second-hand fans point out that the reason for purchasing second-hand bags with Rank AB or B is that the traces of use of the handbags not only do not affect their daily use, but instead add a retro and fashionable charm, while also highlighting the durability of second-hand treasures.

Rarity of style is more important

The value of a second-hand item depends not only on the state of maintenance of the bag, but also on the rarity of the style. Even if some second-hand bags are not in very good condition, if they are out of print or limited edition, their second-hand market prices are still high.

CHANEL Kelly Bag is appreciating in value

The CHANEL Vintage Kelly Bag used by Jennie, the "Human Chanel" in Korea, has been appreciating in value in the second-hand market. This handbag is equipped with a classic golden double C buckle, and its design is simple and elegant. Kelly Bag has been launched in different colors and materials, among which the sheepskin model is the most valuable. Since it is a discontinued handbag, the current second-hand price is over 60,000 Hong Kong dollars. Currently, there is a similar style ( FLAP BAG WITH TOP HANDLE ) on the CHANEL official website, which can be regarded as a new model of the replica CHANEL Kelly Bag.

Other must-have second-hand bags

In addition to the CHANEL Vintage Kelly Bag, which is a vintage collectible worth buying, the following vintage bags are also "collectibles" that Vintage fans should pay attention to.

• CHANEL Vintage Diana Bag
• CHANEL Exotic Animal Leather Handbag
• CHANEL Tortoise Shell Collection
• LOEWE Museum Collection
• LOEWE Snake Bone Series

Every vintage bag with a little trace of time represents its experience and its own story. It can still maintain its elegance even after years, which is the essence of vintage bags.