An Hermès bag has set a new record for the most expensive handbag ever sold at auction, as it was sold for roughly 1.72 million Hong Kong dollars (198 500 euros). The sale price was above the highest estimate (1.5 million Hong Kong dollars).

The shiny fuchsia porosus crocodile diamond Birkin 35 with 18k white gold & diamond hardware was sold to an anonymous phone bidder at Christie’s international handbags and accessories auction in Hong Kong.

The Birkin model has been named after British actor and singer Jane Birkin and has been a favorite with celebrities and socialites since its launch more than three decades ago (1984).

Each bag takes up to 48 hours to hand stich. Variations such as ostrich, calf leather, goat leather and lizard can be found.

Image credits: www.christies.com