Our expert verification

How we authenticate and grade designer handbags

Hermès Birkin 25 Himalaya in matte Niloticus crocodile with palladium hardware, with a loupe and Hermès ribbon in the SACLÀB studio

Our commitment to authenticity

We only offer pieces we are certain are authentic, and we stand behind every bag we sell. Our experts take the time to inspect each one from all angles, so you can shop with complete confidence.

We aim to extend the life cycle of authentic high-end leather goods through bespoke service and full transparency. SACLÀB is not affiliated with any of the brands available for purchase.

Who authenticates your bag

Our authentication team comprises seven specialists, led by co-founder Oliver, who brings more than 15 years of experience in high-end leather goods. Since 2018, the team has examined more than 9,000 bags in our SACLÀB studio.

With our focus on top-tier designers such as Hermès, Chanel and Dior, our experts are trained to rigorously assess brand-specific criteria and review distinct details. Alongside timeless classics, we expand our knowledge of new creations, colours and materials each season.

SACLÀB co-founder Jan-Oliver Stueck inspecting a black Hermès Birkin Rock with white gloves in the SACLÀB studio

How we authenticate, step by step

Only bags that pass without question are admitted to our portfolio.

  1. Intake and documentation. We record each bag’s details and review any receipts, boxes, dust bags and cards – helpful context, but never proof of authenticity on their own.
  2. Materials and craftsmanship. Our experts examine leather, grain, colour, edge paint, lining and stitching – down to the hand-sewn saddle stitch of an Hermès bag.
  3. Hardware, stamps and brand markers. We inspect zips, locks, engravings and heat stamps, as well as each house’s signatures: Hermès date stamps, Chanel serial numbers or microchips, and Dior date codes.
  4. Reference comparison. Every detail is compared against our database of over 50,000 images and detail shots.
  5. Final approval. At the first sign of doubt, a second expert examines the bag independently. If the slightest doubt remains, we decline it and return it to its seller.
Close-up of the saddle stitching and palladium hardware on an Hermès Kelly Picnic in black Box Calf and wicker

How we grade

To ensure your order fully meets your expectations, we grade every new arrival in our SACLÀB studio on a five-point scale before listing it. Any signs of wear are always described on the product page.

We grade the condition of each bag from 1 to 5:

  1. Unworn. Totally unused. In the condition it left the boutique, usually complete with its full set of accessories. Anything missing is always stated on the product page.
  2. Hard to believe somebody owned it before. Showing minimum signs of wear, such as faint marks on the hardware, visible only on close inspection.
  3. Pre-loved. More than one imperfection, such as light corner wear, fine scratches on the hardware or a slightly softened shape, without taking away from the bag’s beauty.
  4. This beauty has admittedly been used. Aged visibly and gracefully, with noticeable wear on corners, handles or interior, all described transparently on the product page.
  5. A bag with traces of a former life. Clear signs of use. Ideal for those who value character, or a perfect candidate for restoration.
Chanel flap bag in black tweed with ecru leather-woven chain and silver CC turn-lock

Frequently asked questions

Are all bags sold on SACLÀB authentic?
Yes. Every bag is authenticated in-house by our specialists before it is listed. If even the slightest doubt remains, we do not accept the bag.

Is SACLÀB affiliated with Hermès, Chanel or Dior?
No. SACLÀB is an independent reseller of authenticated pre-owned designer handbags and is not affiliated with any of the brands available for purchase.

How do you authenticate bags sold by our certified partners?
Partner bags first arrive at our SACLÀB studio, where our experts authenticate each one again before it is shipped to you. Should a bag not pass, we cancel your order and refund you in full.

What happens if a bag does not pass authentication?
We decline the bag and return it to its seller. It will never be listed on our website. If a seller repeatedly submits counterfeit items, we reserve the right to notify the authorities.

Vintage Hermès Kelly in green shiny crocodile with gold hardware and its original dust bag

After all, our objective is to make your purchase as convenient and carefree as possible. In case you wish to know more about the condition of a specific item, reach out to our customer care.

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Expert Authentication
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