The Original Himalayan: Hermès Kelly 32 in Vert Celadon Natura Alligator



The Hermès Kelly 32 Sellier in Vert Celadon Natura alligator is a piece of extraordinary historical significance—it is the bag that inspired the legendary Himalayan collection. This rare vintage creation represents a forgotten chapter in Hermès' exotic leather history, predating the iconic white Himalayan by several years and offering a subtle, nature-inspired alternative that has become almost mythical among collectors.

The Kelly 32 Sellier Format

The Kelly 32 is a classic and versatile size, offering a refined balance between presence and practicality. The key specifications are approximately 32 x 24 x 11 cm (12.5" x 10" x 4") . This size provides ample capacity for daily essentials while maintaining the elegant silhouette that defines the Kelly line.

The Sellier construction is defined by its crisp, structured silhouette with visible exterior stitching . This style is more formal and architectural compared to the softer Retourne style. The structured Sellier design is ideal for showcasing the natural beauty and precise scale pattern of alligator leather, as the rigid construction highlights the exotic material without competition from softer draping.

The Material: Natura Alligator

The "Natura" designation refers to a specific, now-discontinued tanning process for alligator leather that produced a natural, un-dyed appearance. Unlike the stark white of the later Himalayan bags, Natura alligator retains subtle tonal variations that echo the skin's natural coloring, resulting in an organic, nuanced finish.

This alligator is identified by the square "☐" symbol stamped alongside the Hermès mark, confirming its alligator origin . The material is finished in a shiny (lisse) style, achieved through a meticulous hand-buffing process that creates a luminous, mirror-like surface . The glossy finish enhances the natural depth and subtle color variations of the Vert Celadon hue, making each bag a unique testament to the hide's inherent beauty.

The Color: Vert Celadon

Vert Celadon is a soft, muted green that evokes the delicate hue of celadon ceramics. On the shiny alligator, this color appears luminous yet understated, creating a sophisticated neutral that is both distinctive and versatile. The interior is lined with tonal chèvre (goatskin) leather, featuring one zip pocket and two slip pockets .

The quality of the color and its execution are significant; a reseller notes that this "colorway is not made anymore," and that the bag is considered "one of the rarest Hermès bags ever" . The subtlety of Vert Celadon allows it to pair effortlessly with a wide range of wardrobes, making it a highly practical yet extraordinarily rare collector's piece.

Gold Hardware

The gold-plated hardware provides a classic and striking contrast to the soft green tones of the alligator . The warm, luminous gold of the signature Kelly turn-lock, protective feet, and clochette elevates the bag's elegance and adds a touch of timeless luxury. The hardware often features the period-appropriate "HERMES PARIS" engraving, grounding the bag in its 1990s origins .

The "Original Himalayan" Status

The Vert Celadon Natura Kelly is widely recognized as the predecessor to the Himalayan . The modern Himalayan, with its iconic white and grey ombré finish, was introduced later, but this Vert Celadon version represents the original concept—a natural, neutral alligator that allowed the beauty of the skin to shine through without heavy pigmentation.

A leading auction house explicitly describes it as the "Prédécesseur de l'Himalaya" (Predecessor to the Himalaya) . This historical significance elevates the bag beyond a mere rare handbag; it is a piece of Hermès design evolution. As one collector site puts it, this is "the Hima before the Blanc" .

Production Years and Rarity

The Vert Celadon Natura Kelly was produced in 1995, as confirmed by the "Y" stamp found on these bags (which indicates a 1995 production year) . According to auction records, this was an exceptionally limited production run, with one source stating that this model is "one of less than ten pieces" ever made .

Available sizes include both the 28cm and 32cm formats . While the 28cm version is also documented, the 32cm remains the more iconic expression of this rare colorway due to its practical size and balanced proportions.

Collector Appeal and Market Value

The Vert Celadon Natura Kelly combines multiple layers of rarity that drive its collector appeal:

  1. Pre-Himalayan Status: Recognized as the predecessor to the modern Himalayan, a crucial piece of Hermès history 

  2. Limited Production: Fewer than ten pieces produced in 1995 

  3. Discontinued Colorway: Vert Celadon is no longer in production 

  4. Exotic Material: Shiny alligator from Mississippiensis, one of the most prestigious leathers 

Auction estimates have ranged from CHF 25,000-35,000 (approximately USD 27,000-38,000) in 2020 . However, the true market value has likely appreciated significantly given the bag's exceptional rarity and the surging demand for exotic, vintage Hermès pieces.

Condition Considerations

As a vintage piece from 1995, condition is paramount to value. Well-preserved examples are described as in "excellent condition" with "flawless" skin and "pristine" corners and interior . However, even the best examples may show minor signs of age, such as "light marks and traces on exotic leather" and "a few scratches on hardware" .

One critical factor for international buyers is CITES regulation. Alligator and crocodile products require special permits for cross-border shipping, as they are protected under CITES Appendix II .

What's Included

A complete example of this bag typically includes:

  • Clochette with lock and two keys 

  • Removable shoulder strap 

  • Dust bag (vintage) 

  • Signature Hermès box (often with wear) 

  • Rain protector 

Conclusion

The Hermès Kelly 32 Sellier in Vert Celadon Natura alligator is a piece of hidden history—the original inspiration for a design that would later become one of the most recognizable and coveted bags in the world. Its production run of fewer than ten pieces, its discontinued color, and its status as the predecessor to the Himalayan make it a true grail for collectors who understand the deeper narrative of Hermès craftsmanship. For the discerning collector, this bag offers something the modern Himalayan cannot: the quiet distinction of being first.

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