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
Perfect for boardroom meetings and polished city commutes, this vintage Hermès Sac à Dépêches Box 41 brings refined professionalism to every agenda. In black Box calf leather with gold-tone hardware, it secures with an S-lock and neatly organises documents across three compartments.
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 fits inside the Hermès Sac à Dépêches 41? A: The 41 is a classic business briefcase size—typically accommodating a 13–14 inch laptop (in a slim sleeve), A4 documents/folders, a long wallet, keys, pens, a smartphone and a small organiser. Some pieces can take a slim 15 inch laptop depending on gusset configuration. Please refer to the Measurements on this page or ask us to confirm fit for this specific bag.
Q: Does it have a shoulder strap or is it hand‑carry only? A: Most Sac à Dépêches briefcases are designed with a single top handle and carried by hand. Certain editions include D‑rings and a detachable shoulder strap; if a strap is included with this item it will be listed under Accessories. If you don’t see it mentioned, it isn’t included—feel free to ask and we’ll verify.
Q: What does “Box” mean in Hermès leather, and how does it wear? A: Box calf is Hermès’ smooth, semi‑rigid calfskin known for its elegant sheen and structured profile. It can show hairline scratches and is sensitive to moisture, but with normal, careful use it develops a beautiful patina. Avoid rain and colour transfer; wipe with a soft, dry cloth and condition sparingly with a suitable neutral leather product, tested first on an inconspicuous area.
Q: How secure is the closure? A: The Sac à Dépêches features a front flap with a clasp closure; many versions are lockable with a key. Interior organisation varies by release (single, double or triple gusset). We’ll describe the exact closure and compartments for this item in the listing and photos—if anything is unclear, just ask.
Q: Will it keep its shape? Is it heavy? A: In Box calf, the briefcase has a firm, structured feel. Weight depends on leather and gusset count; multi‑gusset versions are naturally heavier. To help maintain shape, avoid overfilling, rotate use, and store the bag lightly stuffed and upright in its dust bag, away from heat and humidity.
Q: What does the “41” indicate and how does it compare to other sizes? A: “41” refers to the approximate width in centimetres. It is roomier than the 38 and designed for full‑size documents and most work essentials. Capacity and proportions can vary slightly by production year and gusset configuration; check the Measurements for this exact piece or ask us for tailored advice.
Q: Where are the Hermès stamps and date codes located? A: Authentic Hermès bags are heat‑stamped “Hermès Paris Made in France,” typically under the flap or near the interior opening. A blind stamp indicating the year and artisan is usually found on the interior leather or along a seam; placement and format vary by era. We’re happy to share close‑up photos on request.
Q: Is the Sac à Dépêches still in production? A: Hermès has produced the Sac à Dépêches across many decades, with variations and periodic updates. Availability in current collections can change over time, so the pre‑loved market is the best source for specific sizes and leathers like Box calf in 41 cm.
Q: How should I care for the leather and hardware? A: Keep the bag away from moisture and oils, be mindful of colour transfer from dark denim, and avoid prolonged sunlight. Wipe leather gently with a soft, dry cloth; polish hardware with a clean, non‑abrasive cloth only. Store in a breathable dust bag, lightly stuffed, with the handle supported and hardware protected from rubbing.
Q: What accessories are included and how do you authenticate? A: Any original accessories (dust bag, clochette and keys, shoulder strap, box or paperwork) included with this specific item will be listed under Accessories. If an item isn’t mentioned, it isn’t included. Every piece at A Retro Tale undergoes rigorous multi‑point authentication of materials, construction, stamps, hardware and codes, and we stand behind the authenticity of all items we sell.
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
/ Briefcases
1 185 £
78%
off retail price
• Black Box calf leather
• Gold-tone hardware
• Single rolled top handle
• Tonal leather lining with three compartments
• Flap top with S-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.
