Hermès' story began in 1837, when Thierry Hermès established a harness and saddle workshop in Paris serving Europe's aristocracy. As transportation evolved from horse-drawn carriages to automobiles, later generations successfully transformed the business into a luxury leather goods maison while preserving its equestrian roots.

Throughout the twentieth century, Hermès introduced products that would become global icons. The Kelly originated as the Sac à Dépêches before gaining worldwide recognition after Grace Kelly carried it in the 1950s. The Birkin, created in 1984 for actress Jane Birkin, later became the most sought-after handbag in luxury fashion.

Today, Hermès continues producing most of its leather goods in France through highly skilled artisans, with each bag handcrafted by a single craftsperson from start to finish.

Key milestones:
• 1837: Thierry Hermès establishes the company in Paris.
• 1880: Headquarters move to Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.
• 1937: Introduction of the Carré silk scarf.
• 1956: The Sac à Dépêches becomes the Kelly bag.
• 1984: Creation of the Birkin bag.
• 1998: Launch of the H Watch collection.
• 2020: Introduction of Hermès Beauty.
• 2026: Continued expansion of leather production capacity with new workshops and successful launches including the Faubourg Express and Collier d'Attelage bags.

Hermès has redefined luxury by proving that craftsmanship, scarcity, and timeless design create lasting desirability that transcends fashion cycles.