HERMESHow can I safely purchase a used item? Five criteria for choosing a store
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HERMESDo you want to buy a second-hand item, but are unable to take the first step, wondering, "Where can I buy it with peace of mind?"
In conclusion,HERMESThe most important thing in order to safely purchase a used product is the product itself.Shop selectionIt is. Can you see the actual product? Can you honestly disclose product information? Can you consult with me after purchase? If the store has these three things, even first-time customers can choose with peace of mind.
In this article, buyers at H3VINTAGE, a vintage specialty store in Ginza, explain the five criteria for identifying reliable stores, product information you should check before purchasing, and differences depending on where you purchase.HERMESI will explain this based on my experience in the field.
You may also want to read:[Professional selection] FirstHERMESComplete guide | How to choose without regrets
HERMESReasons why I feel anxious about purchasing a used item
“UsedHERMES“I feel anxious”—and it’s not because I’m timid that I feel that way. Since purchases often cost over 1 million yen, it is natural to be cautious.
When we break down the true nature of anxiety, it often boils down to the following three things.
- I can't tell if it's real or not: Photos alone are not enough to make a judgment, and I don't have confidence in my own eyes.
- Condition may differ from the photo: The impression of leather fraying and deformation tends to change depending on the angle and light of the photo.
- There is no one to talk to after purchasing.: Even if I have a question after receiving it, I don't know where to ask.
On the other hand, if you choose a restaurant that solves these three problems, most of your worries will disappear. In other words, it is more realistic to ``choose a restaurant where you don't need to tell the difference'' before ``acquire the ability to tell the difference.''
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``Even at our Ginza store, we often receive questions from first-time customers asking, ``Are second-hand items safe?'' I always answer, ``It's natural to be worried.'' The important thing is that customers don't have to worry about it all on their own. I believe it's the job of a specialty store to shoulder those concerns with them.''
HERMES5 criteria for identifying stores where you can safely purchase used products
If you're having trouble choosing a store, check out the following five in order. If the store satisfies all of your needs,HERMESThe chances of making a big mistake when purchasing a used item are much lower.
Criterion 1: There is a physical store and you can check the actual product.
A store with a physical store will give you more peace of mind than a store that is only online. Not only can you get your hands on the actual product, but the very fact that you have a store is proof that the business is designed to continue doing business for a long time.
Criterion 2: The condition of each product is honestly described.
The better the shop, the more they will clearly list any scratches or scratches. Rather than vague expressions such as "overall clean," look for specific statements such as "scuffs on the corners" and "minor scratches on the metal fittings." A shop that can even write about the negative aspects is proof that they are committed to their products.
Criterion 3: Sufficient number and angle of photos
Check that there are photos not only of the front, but also of the bottom, corners, inside, metal fittings, and engravings. Stores with few photos lack information, even if they are not malicious. Another factor to consider is whether or not they are willing to ask for additional photos.
Criterion 4: There is a point of contact where you can ask questions before purchasing.
It is important to have a point of contact, such as by phone or LINE, where you can feel free to ask questions before purchasing. Because of the speed of reply,Contents of the answerPlease take a look. You can trust a store that doesn't just say, "It's okay," but explains the rationale.
Criterion 5: Consultation is provided even after purchase
Care methods, repair consultations, future replacements——HERMESSince this is an item that will last a long time, you want to choose a store where you can maintain a relationship with it even after you buy it. Whether you are willing to sell and call it a day is also reflected in the interactions you have before making a purchase.
| Criteria to check | A safe shop sign |
|---|---|
| Presence of physical store | The address and business hours are clearly stated, so you can check by actually visiting the store. |
| State description | The location of scratches and scratches is written in detail. |
| photo | Multiple photos are posted including the bottom, corners, inside, and metal fittings. |
| Counter before purchase | You can ask questions over the phone or LINE and receive an explanation of the basis. |
| Post-purchase support | We can also provide advice on maintenance and repairs. |
You may also want to read:[Professional honest explanation] Why First?HERMESShould I choose a used one?
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``What I think is most important is Criterion 2, ``Are you writing about the negative aspects?''HERMESUsed items are one-of-a-kind, so it's natural for their condition to vary. I think stores that can't write this down honestly are looking at sales more than customers. On the other hand, when I see a page with detailed descriptions of the locations of the scratches, even though I'm in the same industry, I feel like I can trust this place.''
HERMES4 product information you should definitely check before purchasing a used product
Once you have narrowed down your search, the next step is to look at the product pages. Just by keeping this in mind, you can significantly reduce the chance of disappointment after receiving the item.
1. Does the description of the condition match the photo?
The text says it's in good condition, but the photo shows scratches on the corners. Check to see if there are any discrepancies. Please feel free to ask questions if you have any questions. If you are confused about the answer, it is wise to pass on that one point.
2. How many accessories are included?
BirkinYaKellyComes with a cadena (padlock), crochette (leather case for keys), keys, storage bag, etc. Items that are aligned tend to retain their value in the future. However, even without accessories, it is quite attractive if it is in good condition. Please make your decision based on the balance with the price.
3. Can you guess the year from the stamp?
HERMESThere is a stamp on the bag that indicates the date of manufacture, which can give you a clue as to when the bag was made. However, you cannot determine whether the item is genuine by looking at the engraving alone. The correct answer is not to say ``I feel safe because there is a stamp,'' but ``I feel safe because the shop discloses the stamp.''
4. Is the price extremely far from the market price?
Please compare products of the same model, same size, and similar condition at multiple stores. There is always a reason why a product is extremely cheaper than the market price. If the reason is clearly stated, you will be more satisfied with your purchase, and if you don't know the reason, it is safer to stay away.
You may also want to read:[2026 latest]HERMESA complete guide to avoid mistakes when purchasing (how to read stamps)
[Buyer Kougen comment]
``Sometimes people come to me and ask me, ``Is this a good deal?'' when they see something that's cheaper than the market price.The answer is usually ``Ask why.''It's not a bad thing to be cheap as long as you know the reason, such as whether there's internal damage.What's scary is when something is sold without an explanation as to why it's cheap.''
HERMESWhere can I buy a used one? Comparison of 4 purchasing locations
“Where is the safest place to buy?”—Isn’t this what you want to know the most? Each has its pros and cons, so it is realistic to choose according to your priorities.
| Where to buy | Facing point | Points to note |
|---|---|---|
| vintage specialty store | You can find rare discontinued colors and old models. You can choose while consulting. | We don't have as many stocks as the major companies. |
| Major reuse shop | We have a large inventory, making it easy to compare and consider. | Point-by-point explanations tend to be brief. |
| Flea market app/OEAUaction | Prices may be reduced | It tends to be difficult to check the condition or consult after purchase. |
| HERMESOfficial store | You can purchase new products at regular price | Birkin・Kellyis rarely available in stores |
first timeHERMESIf you are purchasing a second-hand item, we recommend consulting with a vintage specialty store before making your selection. Although we can't compete with the major brands in terms of the number of items in stock, being able to choose while receiving an explanation of the background behind each item makes it a completely different experience.
Also,BirkinYaKellyThe reality is that it is difficult to purchase what you want at a regular store. More and more people are realistically considering the second-hand market as an option other than waiting at an official store.
You may also want to read:[2026 latest]HERMESWhat is the impact of the price revision? Why now is the time to choose vintage
[Buyer Kougen comment]
“To be honest, at an official storeBirkinYaKellyIt's currently quite difficult to get what you want. That's why more and more people are turning to the used market. And second-hand items have a lot of fun that you won't find in official stores. A color that's no longer made, a specification that doesn't exist any more - encountering something like that is something you won't get even if you wait.''
HERMESCommon mistakes when buying second hand and how to avoid them
If you've read this far, you probably won't make any major mistakes, but I'd like to introduce three common stumbling blocks. Just be aware of it and you can avoid it.
Mistake 1: Making decisions in haste
This is a case where you feel rushed and think, ``I have to make a decision now because it's a one-of-a-kind item.'' Popular models tend to move quickly, but if you are unsure about purchasing one, you may be less satisfied. If you have any concerns, the sooner you consult with us, the better the results will be.
Mistake 2: Buying without checking the actual size
If you choose based only on the numbers, you are likely to end up saying, ``It was bigger than I expected,'' or ``A4 paper wouldn't fit.''Birkin 25andBirkin 30Although the difference is only 5 cm, the impression of usability changes considerably. If possible, look at the actual item, and if difficult, compare the dimensions with the bag you already have.
Mistake 3: Expecting perfection too much
Vintage is a piece that has stood the test of time. In fact, the small scratches and signs of use are proof of the time that a piece has passed over. The more you want things to look like new, the narrower your options will be and the higher the price will be. Deciding for yourself how much you don't care about will make it easier to choose.
You may also want to read:HERMES Complete bag size guide | PM/MM/number size differences & comparison of 6 popular models
[Buyer Kougen comment]
"I've seen many people spend years unable to decide on a bag because they are too concerned with its condition. Of course, condition is important, but bags are meant to be worn, not displayed. Once you accept a little wear and tear, your options expand rapidly, and you can often find the ideal color and material within your budget."
HERMESFrequently asked questions about buying used
Q. UsedHERMESCan I purchase with confidence?
A. You can buy with confidence if you choose a store that has a physical store, honestly discloses the condition, and offers consultation after purchase. Choosing a store is more important than having the ability to distinguish between products.
Q. UsedHERMESWhere do you recommend to buy?
A. For first-time customers, we recommend a vintage specialty store where you can consult with them before making your selection. Although we don't have as many items in stock as the major brands, you can choose while listening to an explanation of the background behind each item.
Q. UsedHERMESWhat should I check when buying?
A. Please check these four points: whether the description of the condition matches the photo, how many accessories are included, whether the stamp is disclosed, and whether the price is too far from the market price.
Q. Used item without all accessoriesHERMESShould I avoid it?
A. You don't necessarily have to avoid it. Items that come complete with cadenas and storage bags tend to retain their future value, but even without them, if they are in good condition, they are attractive enough. Please make a decision based on the balance with the price.
Q. UsedHERMESCan I see the actual product before purchasing?
A. Yes, if you have a physical store. You can check the actual product at H3VINTAGE's Ginza store (1 minute walk from Ginza Station A12 exit). Business hours are 10:00-20:00, open seven days a week.
Q. Used onlineHERMESI'm nervous about buying it.
A. Please see if you can request additional photos or explain the basis for your question. H3VINTAGE accepts consultations via LINE and telephone, delivers the next day after ordering, and has a customer rating of 4.8.
Q. UsedHERMESWill it be affected by price increases?
A. Yes. If the list price at an official store goes up, the used market price tends to go up as well, so if you're considering it, we recommend gathering information early.
Summary｜HERMESWhen purchasing a used item, you can be assured of peace of mind by choosing a store.
Let's review the main points of this article.
- HERMESThe most important thing when purchasing a second-hand product is toShop selectionIt is
- Please check these five things: presence or absence of a physical store, honest description of condition, sufficient photos, contact point before purchase, and response after purchase.
- On the product page, please look at four points: condition and photo match, accessories, engraving, and difference from market price.
- For first-timers, a vintage specialty store where you can choose while consulting is suitable.
- Don't rush into making a decision, check the size, and don't expect too much perfection -- these three things will almost prevent you from making a mistake.
[Buyer Kougen comment]
「HERMESThere's no need to feel guilty about buying a used item. Rather, being able to come across colors and specifications that are no longer made is a privilege only for those who choose second-hand products. I believe that choosing vintage is the best way to embrace your longing as a reality rather than letting it end as a ``someday''. I'll be waiting for you in Ginza, so please feel free to express any concerns you have."
Please take a look at the lineup online. If you find something you're interested in, you can check it out at our Ginza store. If you have any concerns before purchasing, please feel free to contact us on LINE or by phone.
