Birkin5 ways to get ｜Professional explanation of how to purchase and choose
目次
BirkinThere are five ways to purchase items: official stores, used/vintage specialty stores, online, overseas purchases, and personal transactions. Among these, for those who want to see the actual item and make a selection right away, a second-hand/vintage specialty store is a practical and recommended option. While there is a possibility that you can buy it at a regular price at a regular store, it depends on the timing and is not very certain. Once you know the characteristics of each, you will be able to find the method that suits you.
「BirkinWhat is the correct way to buy it? ” “Can I just go to the store and get it?” — I’m sure many of you have questions like that. In this article:BirkinWe've organized each of the five purchasing methods to get your hands on one, and we've summarized the benefits and precautions for each, as well as recommendations for each purpose, in an easy-to-understand manner. By the time you finish reading it, you should be able to clearly see the path that will take you closer to your dream.
You may also want to read:BirkinComplete guide｜Professional explanation of sizes, prices, and purchasing methods
Birkin5 ways to purchase ｜Let's understand the whole picture first
“I don't really know where to buy or what options I have.” This is probably the first thing that stumbles. In conclusion,BirkinThe purchasing methods to obtain can be organized into the following five ways. The first step to avoiding detours is to grasp the overall picture.
BirkinWe have summarized the main purchasing methods, along with their characteristics, in a list.
| How to purchase | Features | suitable person |
|---|---|---|
| ①Authorized store (boutique) | There is a possibility that you can buy it at the regular price, but the information will depend on stock and track record. | Those who want to pay attention to new products even if it takes time |
| ②Used/vintage specialty store | You can see the actual item in stock and choose it on the spot. | Those who want to check the actual product and choose it now |
| ③Online (mail order at specialty stores) | You can compare them carefully at home. Choosing a store is important | For those who do not have a store nearby and would like to make their selection at home. |
| ④Overseas boutiques/travel destinations | There is a possibility of encountering one, but the certainty is low. | Those who are planning to go abroad and want to try their luck |
| ⑤Personal transactions (flea market/OEAUaction) | The price is attractive, but it is difficult to determine the condition and authenticity. | Knowledgeable and understands risks |
In this way, each method has its pros and cons. The method you should choose will depend on whether you want to get the product reliably and with peace of mind, or whether you want a new product even if it takes a little longer. Let's look at each one in detail in the next chapter.
[Buyer Kougen comment]
「『BirkinMany people are surprised when they come to the store and think, ``I can buy it if I go to the store.'' In fact, there are many ways to obtain it, and the ease of obtaining it and the sense of security you have will depend on which one you choose. Just knowing your options will make all the difference in how you search."
[Methods 1 and 2] How to purchase at official stores and used/vintage specialty stores
The first thing that comes to mind for many people is purchasing at an official store. However, regular stores have their own difficulties. Here, we will organize two typical purchasing methods based on their characteristics.
Method 1: Purchase at an official store (boutique)
The biggest appeal of official stores is the possibility of purchasing new products at regular prices. However,BirkinThey are not always available at the store, and staff will generally guide you depending on stock status and past purchase history. Therefore, it is not always possible to buy something just by going to the store, and when you will be guided to it depends greatly on the timing. This method may not be suitable for those seeking certainty.
Method 2: Purchase at a used/vintage specialty store
The strength of used/vintage specialty stores is that you can see the actual items in stock and choose on the spot. Unlike regular stores, you don't have to wait to find out when you'll be notified, and you can get the item you like right away. Another appeal of vintage is that you can find out-of-print colors and vintage items that you can't find at regular stores. It is suitable for those who want to confirm the actual product before making a selection.
If you would like to know more about why it is said that it is difficult to buy at regular stores, please also check out this article.
You may also want to read:BirkinWhy can't I buy it? Explaining why it is difficult to purchase and how to obtain it
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``I've seen many people who have waited for years to find an official store and never found one.Of course, new products have their own advantages.However, for those who want to see the actual item and make a selection, second-hand or vintage items are often more suitable.I think being able to pick up an item and be satisfied with it before being taken home is a peace of mind that can only come from a specialty store.''
[Method 3, 4, 5] How to purchase online/overseas/individual transactions
For those who don't have a store nearby or want to search more widely, we'll also explain the remaining three purchasing methods. Each has its own convenience and precautions, so be sure to keep them in mind.
Method 3: Purchase online (from a specialty store)
The appeal of online shopping is that you can carefully compare prices from the comfort of your own home. Even if you don't have a store near you, you can choose from inventory nationwide. However, since you cannot see the actual product in person, it is important to choose a reliable shop that provides detailed explanations of the condition and has plenty of photos. Another criterion to consider when choosing a company is whether or not they will respond kindly to returns and inquiries.
Method 4: Search by overseas boutiques/travel destinations
It is sometimes said that official stores overseas may have better stock availability than those in Japan. One way is to search while traveling. However, it is not certain that this information will be provided, and hurdles such as exchange rates, customs duties, and communication at the time of purchase are not low. The only realistic thing to do is to think, ``I'll be lucky if I can meet you.''
Method 5: Personal transaction (flea market/OEAUPurchase at
Flea market appsOEAUSome people may find this option attractive due to its price. On the other hand, this method can be difficult for beginners, as it requires you to assess the condition and decide whether it is genuine or not. If you prioritize peace of mind, choosing a specialty store that guarantees the condition will result in fewer mistakes.
[Buyer Kougen comment]
"There are many people who come to us for advice after making a mistake in a private transaction.The price alone may seem attractive, but determining the condition is difficult.Even if you choose a store online, be sure to look carefully at the number of photos and the thoroughness with which the condition is explained.The attitude of a store will always show whether or not you can trust it."
If you've looked at the five methods so far and feel like you want to see which one is better in the end, please take a look at the lineup online. At our physical store in Ginza, you can see the texture of the leather in person, which is difficult to see in photos.
BirkinWhich method of purchasing is recommended? How to choose by purpose
“I know the method, but which one should I choose?”—I think this is what you want to know the most. In conclusion, the most realistic and recommended option for many people is to purchase at a used/vintage specialty store where you can see the actual item. Organizing by purpose will make it easier to understand.
- I want to make sure I get it right away: The shortcut is to go to a second-hand/vintage specialty store and look at the actual item and make your selection on the spot.
- I want to stick to new products anyway.:It is best to wait patiently for an official store, but it is not very reliable.
- There is no store nearby and I want to choose at home.: You can feel safe if you choose an online specialty store that provides detailed explanations of the condition.
- I want to find out-of-print colors and vintage items.: We recommend looking for something unique to a vintage specialty store.
Especially “first time”BirkinThe more you don't want to make a mistake, the more valuable it is to choose a store where you can see the actual product. If you have an idea of the market price, you can make a choice with more confidence, so this article may also be helpful.
You may also want to read:Birkinprice market｜Explanation of regular price, vintage market price and price increase trends
[Buyer Kougen comment]
"We are often asked, ``Which method is the right way?'' and the correct answer depends on the customer's goals. Some people can wait years for a new product, while others want to value their current feelings. I always listen to your wishes and budget, and then we think about it together without making any forced recommendations. It's best to not rush and choose the method that suits you best."
don't failBirkinTips on how to purchase | Use vintage specialty stores wisely
``If you go to the trouble of getting it, you definitely don't want to regret it.'' That feeling is very important. In conclusion, the trick to avoiding mistakes is to be a little flexible in terms of conditions and choose a reliable shop where you can check the actual product. Organize the points you want to keep in mind.
- Expand size and color conditions:PopularBirkin 25- Don't just stick to standard colors; expand your horizons to 30, 35, and unique colors, and you'll have more encounters.
- Consider vintage too.: The appeal of vintage is that you can find out-of-print colors and unique items that are not available at regular stores.
- Choose at a store where you can check the actual product: Even first-time customers can choose a store with confidence if the store explains the condition carefully and lets you check the actual product.
- If you have any concerns, please consult us as soon as possible.: Since no two vintage items are the same, individuals that attract our attention tend to move quickly.
If you would like to learn more about the criteria for determining a trustworthy store, please also read this article. If you have a good eye for choosing a store, you will be less likely to make mistakes no matter which purchasing method you choose.
You may also want to read:HERMESHow can I safely purchase a used item? Five criteria for choosing a store
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``If you narrow down your criteria too much, it may take a long time to find something.Even if you have decided on ``25 black'', if you look at 30 or a slightly rarer color, you can often find something surprisingly wonderful.If you let us know what you want, we will work with you to find it until you are satisfied with it, including the condition, so please feel free to contact us.''
BirkinFrequently asked questions (FAQ) on how to purchase
Q. BirkinWhat are the ways to obtain it?
A. There are mainly five types: "official stores," "second-hand/vintage specialty stores," "online," "overseas purchases," and "personal transactions." Among these, for those who want to see the actual item and make a selection right away, a second-hand/vintage specialty store is a practical and recommended option.
Q. BirkinCan I buy it at an official store?
A. It is not always possible to buy it.BirkinThey are not always available in stores, and are generally guided based on inventory and purchase history. Even if you have a list price, you may not be able to find it on your first visit.
Q. BirkinWhich is the most reliable way to obtain it?
A. It is realistic to purchase at a second-hand/vintage specialty store, where you can see the actual items in stock and choose from them. If you expand your size and color criteria a little, your chances of finding one will increase even further.
Q. OnlineBirkinIs it okay to buy it?
A. You can feel safe if you choose a reliable specialty store that provides detailed explanations of the condition and plenty of photos. Another criterion when choosing a store is whether or not they will respond to your inquiries in a friendly manner.
Q. Flea market apps?OEAUin actionBirkinIs it recommended to buy?
A. Although the price is attractive, it is a difficult method for beginners because you have to judge the condition and authenticity by yourself. If peace of mind is your priority, a specialty store that guarantees the condition is the way to go.
Q. UsedBirkinBut can you find one in good condition?
A. Yes, it can be found. Vintage specialty stores have many items in good condition, and you can also find items that are not available in regular stores, such as out-of-print colors. If you are at a store where you can check the actual item, you can accept the item after being satisfied with its condition.
Summary｜Suitable for meBirkinGet your dream item with this purchasing method.
BirkinWe will summarize the key points on how to purchase and choose.
- BirkinThere are five ways to purchase: ``official store'', ``used/vintage specialty store'', ``online'', ``overseas'', and ``personal transaction''.
- While you may be able to buy at a regular price at a regular store, guidance is not very reliable as it depends on the timing.
- For those who want to see the actual item right away and make a selection, second-hand/vintage specialty stores are a practical option.
- Online and personal transactions are attractive for their convenience and price, but it is important to choose a store and assess the condition.
- The trick to not making mistakes is to have a wide range of conditions and choose a reliable shop where you can check the actual product.
[Buyer Kougen comment]
「『BirkinIt would be a waste to give up on your dreams just because you were told, ``I can't afford it.'' There are many ways to obtain one, and if you know how to look for it, you are sure to find one that suits you. As prices continue to rise, finding vintage items in good condition is of great value. One of the best ways to make your dreams come true, rather than ending them at ``someday'' is to encounter one carefully selected item. We'll be waiting for you in Ginza, so please come and see the real thing."
I'm curiousBirkinIf you are looking for something that fits your budget, please take a look at our lineup online. You can check the actual product at our physical store in Ginza, and if you have any concerns before purchasing, we will be happy to assist you on LINE or by phone.
