Beware of the risks in the Hermès vintage market!
In recent years, Hermès replicas have increased, especially boutique formats, gift sets and refills. Even with credible batch codes and almost perfect packaging, the details make the difference. Only VIPER’s expert consultancy can spot the smallest differences between authentic and imitation.
In recent years, Hermès replicas have increased, especially boutique formats, gift sets and refills. Even with credible batch codes and almost perfect packaging, the details make the difference. Only VIPER’s expert consultancy can spot the smallest differences between authentic and imitation.
Hermès batch code: why is it so hard to interpret?
The Hermès batch code does not follow a single standard: every fragrance, historical period, and collection may have different coding, locations or characters. Some are printed, others engraved, sometimes hidden under a label or inside the box.
Only detailed analysis can reveal the exact year of production and the original collection.
VIPER Tip:
Always keep the original box, the dustbag and any certificate or accessory. Photograph the batch code and all internal labels, even on refills or travel sets: it’s often the least obvious details that make the difference in value and authenticity.
Always keep the original box, the dustbag and any certificate or accessory. Photograph the batch code and all internal labels, even on refills or travel sets: it’s often the least obvious details that make the difference in value and authenticity.
Curiosities, real cases and collector tips
- Vintage Equipage of almost half a litre: An extremely rare Hermès Equipage bottle of almost 500 ml, with an original documented batch code, was sold at auction for over €1800. Authenticity was certified thanks to the matching batch code, packaging and preserved accessories.
- “Caleche Soie de Parfum” editions with secret packaging: Some versions were released only in selected boutiques with unique packaging details and batch codes, different from those for international markets. These bottles are now highly sought after by collectors.
- Batch code and international differences: Some vintage Hermès batches – especially Rocabar and Bel Ami – show batch codes and packaging details that differ between French and export versions, making certain bottles rare collector’s items.
Decode your Hermès batch code now
You can use the service without registration. If in doubt, choose manual Hermès decoding and get expert advice (you can also send photos).
Beware of faded or barely legible batch codes:
On many vintage Hermès bottles the batch code may be faded or partially erased. With manual consultancy and detailed photos, VIPER can often still identify the era or spot suspicious anomalies.
On many vintage Hermès bottles the batch code may be faded or partially erased. With manual consultancy and detailed photos, VIPER can often still identify the era or spot suspicious anomalies.
Collectibility and value:
The value of a Hermès perfume depends on the consistency of all details: readable batch code, original box and dustbag, certificates, accessories. Small differences between batches, even in the same year, are the secret to distinguishing a true collector’s investment.
The value of a Hermès perfume depends on the consistency of all details: readable batch code, original box and dustbag, certificates, accessories. Small differences between batches, even in the same year, are the secret to distinguishing a true collector’s investment.
Real testimony:
“I had a 1990s Hermès authenticated: the batch code seemed plausible, but only with VIPER consultancy did we discover packaging details that saved my investment from a possible scam.”
- Federico, collector from Bologna
“I had a 1990s Hermès authenticated: the batch code seemed plausible, but only with VIPER consultancy did we discover packaging details that saved my investment from a possible scam.”
- Federico, collector from Bologna