Renowned for its unmatched craftsmanship and timeless elegance, Hermès stands as a beacon of luxury in the modern world. But why are its products so costly? According to Artistic Director Pierre-Alexis Dumas, the answer lies not in expense, but in value – a philosophy that defines the brand’s legacy of excellence.
The Hermès Philosophy: Cost vs. Expense
In a candid interview on CBS’s “60 Minutes”, Pierre-Alexis Dumas addressed the perception of Hermès as an expensive brand. When journalist Sharyn Alfonsi asked if cost influences the brand’s decisions, Dumas responded: “I can’t work like that. I’ve always heard that Hermès is very costly. It’s not expensive. It’s costly”.
Dumas elaborated on the distinction:
“The cost is the actual price of making an object properly, with the required level of attention, so that you have an object of Quality. Expensive is a product that does not deliver what it’s supposed to deliver, but you’ve paid a large amount for it, and then it betrays you. That’s expensive”.
The insight underscores Hermès’ dedication to creating products that endure, providing genuine value through impeccable quality and meticulous craftsmanship.
What Makes Hermès Costly?
Since its founding in 1837, Hermès has committed to preserving artisanal techniques that prioritize excellence over efficiency. Each product, from leather goods to fine silk scarves, reflects the brand’s unwavering dedication to quality.
The Birkin bag, a symbol of Hermès’ mastery, epitomizes this ethos. Starting at around $10,000, the cost of a Birkin varies based on materials and craftsmanship. The Himalaya Birkin, for instance, adorned with diamond-encrusted hardware, sold for over $450,000 at Sotheby’s in 2022, setting a new benchmark for luxury handbags.
Each Birkin is handcrafted by a single artisan, a process that can take weeks or even months. From sourcing rare materials to perfecting the iconic saddle stitching, every detail reflects the brand’s meticulous approach.
The Hermès Experience: Patience as a Virtue
Hermès takes pride in offering not just a product, but an experience. Dumas emphasized this during the interview:
“You go to a store. You get an appointment. You meet a salesperson. You talk about what you want. It’s not available. You’ll have to wait. They’ll come back to you. It takes a long time. Eventually, it’s gonna happen”.
This approach reinforces Hermès’ exclusivity, ensuring that every customer embarks on a journey that mirrors the care and attention invested in each creation. Patience, much like quality, is a virtue Hermès holds dear.
Hermès: A Legacy of Timeless Craftsmanship
What sets Hermès apart is its ability to balance tradition with innovation. For over 185 years, the brand has maintained its artisanal roots while embracing modernity, creating pieces that transcend fleeting trends.
Dumas’ perspective on cost and expense encapsulates the Hermès philosophy: luxury is not about superficial opulence but about delivering enduring value. Each product tells a story of dedication, artistry, and a commitment to excellence.
Why Hermès is Worth It
In a market flooded with mass production and fleeting trends, Hermès stands out as a symbol of authenticity and artistry. Its products are not just purchases – they are investments in quality, heritage, and timeless elegance.
As Dumas aptly put it:
“The cost of Hermès is the price of doing things properly, with care and attention. It’s a reflection of true value, not just expense”.
At DASSARIS, we celebrate the artistry, innovation, and heritage that define luxury. Join us as we explore the stories behind iconic brands like Hermès and their commitment to excellence.
