We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
An elegant choice for boardroom meetings or city lunches, this vintage Hermès Birkin 30 in Blue Jean Clemence with palladium hardware brings polished sophistication to any ensemble. Its structured silhouette transitions seamlessly from day to evening, perfect for work and social occasions.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What typically fits inside the Hermès Birkin 30? A: As a medium tote (approx. 30 × 22 × 15 cm), it comfortably holds a large smartphone, continental wallet, keys, slim sunglasses in a soft case, a small cosmetics pouch, and an A5 diary/notebook. A compact e‑reader or slim 11‑inch tablet may fit when placed diagonally; A4 documents do not lie flat. Capacity varies slightly by year and leather—please refer to the Measurements on this page or ask us for a tailored fit check for this exact piece.
Q: Can I wear it on the shoulder or crossbody? Does it come with a strap? A: The Birkin 30 is designed for hand or crook‑of‑arm carry. The dual rolled handles on this piece have an approx. 10 cm drop, which is usually too short for shoulder wear, and the bag has no strap attachments. If you’d like to see how it sits on you, we’re happy to advise.
Q: What is Clémence leather and how does it differ from Togo? A: Taurillon Clémence is a soft, pebbled calfskin with a round grain and a relaxed, slightly slouchy drape; it’s known to be a touch heavier and to develop a gentle slouch over time. Togo (also calf) has a finer grain, tends to be a bit lighter and retains structure slightly better. Both are durable everyday leathers with proper care.
Q: What is “Blue Jean” and does it have contrast stitching? A: Blue Jean is an iconic Hermès mid‑blue that reads fresh and versatile year‑round. Many Blue Jean pieces—especially with palladium hardware—feature distinctive white contrast saddle stitching that highlights the hand‑crafted construction. Shade can vary slightly by leather type and production year. This piece is Blue Jean Clémence with palladium hardware.
Q: How secure is the closure and what is the interior layout? A: The Birkin features a flap top with sangles and a turn‑lock (with padlock option) for everyday security, plus base studs to protect the bottom. Inside, this bag has a matching leather lining with one zipped pocket and one slip pocket as shown in our photos and description.
Q: Is the Birkin 30 heavy to carry? A: Weight varies with leather and hardware. Clémence is slightly denser than some other Hermès leathers, so it can feel a touch heavier—but most users find the Birkin 30 comfortable for day‑to‑day. If you’re weight‑sensitive, ask us for an exact scale weight of this specific bag.
Q: How should I care for Clémence leather and palladium hardware? A: Keep the bag away from water, oils and prolonged sunlight; be mindful of colour transfer from dark denim onto lighter leathers. If lightly wet, blot (don’t rub) with a soft cloth and allow to air‑dry. Avoid overloading to preserve shape. Store upright, lightly stuffed, in a breathable dust bag with the flaps closed over their felt; consider twillies to protect handles. Hairline scratches on palladium‑plated hardware are normal with use—avoid abrasive contact to minimise them.
Q: What does the date stamp “Square H (2004)” mean and where is it located? A: Hermès used a letter‑in‑a‑square system from 1997–2014 to indicate the production year; “H” in a square corresponds to 2004. The blind stamp is heat‑embossed discreetly—often behind a strap, under the flap or near an interior seam. Placement can vary slightly by bag and year.
Q: What accessories are included with this listing? A: For this piece we list: clochette, padlock and keys under “Accessories.” If a dust bag, box or rain cover isn’t mentioned there, it isn’t included—feel free to ask us to confirm any item.
Q: Can Hermès service a 2004 Birkin? What is the “Hermès Spa”? A: Yes—Hermès offers after‑sales care (“Spa”) for cleaning, refurbishment and certain repairs, subject to in‑person assessment and parts availability. Turnaround, scope and acceptance can vary (especially if a bag has had non‑Hermès repairs). We’re happy to guide you on arranging a boutique evaluation for this bag.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Hermès
/ Bags
/ Handbags
/ Birkin Bags
12 251 £
• Blue Jean Clemence leather
• Palladium hardware
• Dual rolled top handles
• Matching leather lining with one internal zip pocket and one slip pocket
• Flap top with turn-lock closure
• Vintage
The authenticity of this bag has been checked and verified by our experts who have over 10 years of experience in vintage and luxury bags. We also use a well established 3rd party authentication tool to verify our bags.
