Chanel Mini Rectangular Flap with Fixed Adjustable Gold Ball in Black Lambskin
Crossbody/Shoulder Bag; specifically a Rectangular Mini Flap silhouette with an adjustable Bijoux chain mechanism. · Chanel (owned by Wertheimer family); Haute Couture Luxury tier. Designed under the creative direction of Virginie Viard.
Collection: Chanel Seasonal Cruise/Metiers d'Art Collection (specifically the 'Pearl Crush' or 'Gold Ball' line); released circa 2020-2022.
Style
Crossbody/Shoulder Bag; specifically a Rectangular Mini Flap silhouette with an adjustable Bijoux chain mechanism.
Brand
Chanel (owned by Wertheimer family); Haute Couture Luxury tier. Designed under the creative direction of Virginie Viard.
Material
Quilted Lambskin leather known for its buttery soft, smooth hand-feel. Construction features machine-stitched diamond quilting and turned-edge finishing. The bag uses a structured internal 'monoblock' frame to maintain its rectangular shape against the soft leather.
Dimensions
Width: 20cm (7.8"), Height: 12cm (4.7"), Depth: 6cm (2.3"). Strap drop is variable up to approximately 58cm (23"). Recognizable as the 'Rectangular Mini' size.
Description
A modern masterpiece of versatility, the Chanel Pearl Crush Mini Rectangular Flap combines the timeless elegance of the 11.12 flap bag with innovative hardware. Its buttery black lambskin is juxtaposed against a matte, antique-gold-tone finish, creating a piece that transitions seamlessly from day to evening. The rectangular silhouette offers more internal volume than its square counterpart, making it the perfect compact companion for the modern woman.
Key Features
The 'Pearl Crush' gold ball adjuster is the primary identifier. Additionally, the Mini size does not feature the 'double flap' used in Medium/Large sizes, opting for a single flap for lighter weight and easier access.
Material & Construction
Quilted Lambskin leather known for its buttery soft, smooth hand-feel. Construction features machine-stitched diamond quilting and turned-edge finishing. The bag uses a structured internal 'monoblock' frame to maintain its rectangular shape against the soft leather.
Color & Pattern
Classic Black (Noir); features the signature Chanel diamond quilt pattern. The quilting is high-loft, giving it a puffy, plush appearance indicative of newer lambskin releases.
Hardware Details
Brushed/Antique Gold-Tone Hardware. Key features include the 'CC' turn-lock clasp and a signature 'Gold Ball' (Pearl Crush) adjuster bead featuring an embossed CC logo and internal silicone grip for strap length modification.
Interior Description
Lined in tonal black or burgundy smooth lambskin. Features one main compartment, one zip pocket with a Chanel-branded pull, and one slip pocket. Gold foil heat stamp 'CHANEL' and 'MADE IN ITALY/FRANCE' usually located inside.
Closure Type
Front flap with iconic 'CC' turn-lock mechanism. The lock plate on the reverse of the flap should be secured with flat-head screws.
Strap & Handle Details
Non-detachable interwoven chain and leather strap. The unique selling point is the sliding gold ball that allows the wearer to adjust the length for shoulder, crossbody, or waist wear.
Craftsmanship Details
High stitch-per-inch count (typically 10+). Quilt alignment is generally perfect from the body to the flap, though slight deviations are common in mini sizes. The antique finish on the hardware is intentional, designed not to show fingerprints or hairline scratches easily.
Authentication Indicators
The 'CC' turn-lock: the right 'C' should overlap the left at the top, and the left 'C' should overlap the right at the bottom. Stitching is consistent through the diamonds. The gold ball should have a heavy, solid feel with a smooth sliding mechanism. The newer 2021+ 'NFC' microchip/plate might be present inside instead of a traditional sticker.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy or France. Chanel utilizes high-precision manufacturing in its European ateliers, focusing on leather consistency and high-grade metal plating.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2020s). This design reflects the 'Functional Luxury' period where classic silhouettes were updated with high-utility hardware (the adjustment ball) to better suit modern variety in styling.
Age Estimate
Circa 2020-2022. This specific hardware variant was a breakout success of the Spring/Summer 2020 collection and continued through several subsequent seasons.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Adjustable Luxury' trend. It signifies Chanel’s ability to take a 60-year-old DNA and modernize it for a global, diverse audience that values customization.
Condition Notes
Exterior shows slight creasing indicative of soft lambskin usage; hardware appears in excellent condition with minimal scratching to the CC turn-lock. Structure remains strong. Grade: Excellent/Very Good.
Value Estimate
Retail: ~$5,000 USD. Resale: $4,800 - $6,000 USD depending on condition and presence of full set (box, dustbag, microchip/card).
Care & Maintenance
Store stuffed with acid-free tissue in a dust bag. Avoid contact with water or oils as lambskin is highly absorbent. Use a soft micro-fiber cloth to buff out light surface scratches. Professional leather 'spa' treatments recommended every 2 years.
Similar Handbags
Chanel Classic Mini Flap (Fixed strap), Chanel Square Mini, or the Dior Micro Lady Dior. Distinct from others by the presence of the sliding ball adjuster.
Interesting Facts
Upon its release, the 'Pearl Crush' line was so popular that it commanded resale prices 40-60% above retail almost instantly, as it solved the historical complaint that Chanel's fixed chain straps were too long for petite customers.