Chanel Classic Medium Double Flap in Black Caviar Leather with Gold Hardware
Shoulder Bag / Double Flap · Chanel (owned by Wertheimer family), Haute Couture House. Designed by Karl Lagerfeld as an evolution of Coco Chanel's 2.55.
Collection: Classic Collection (Permanent Line)
Style
Shoulder Bag / Double Flap
Brand
Chanel (owned by Wertheimer family), Haute Couture House. Designed by Karl Lagerfeld as an evolution of Coco Chanel's 2.55.
Material
Grained Calfskin (Caviar leather) known for durability. Quilted construction with diamond-pattern stitching and hand-painted edge finishing.
Dimensions
Width: 25.5 cm (10 inches), Height: 15.5 cm (6 inches), Depth: 6.5 cm (2.5 inches), Strap Drop: 23-43 cm.
Description
The quintessential luxury handbag, the Chanel Classic Flap is a masterpiece of design. It combines the practicality of a shoulder bag with the elegance of high fashion, featuring the iconic diamond quilting and the famous interlocking CC clasp introduced by Karl Lagerfeld.
Key Features
Diamond quilting alignment across the front flap and body, burgundy interior, lobster-claw style CC turn-lock, and the 'Mona Lisa' smile back pocket.
Material & Construction
Grained Calfskin (Caviar leather) known for durability. Quilted construction with diamond-pattern stitching and hand-painted edge finishing.
Color & Pattern
Classic Black (Noir) with signature diamond quilting. This is a permanent colorway for the house.
Hardware Details
Shiny Gold-tone metal. Features the signature 'CC' turn-lock clasp, four grommets for the chain, and interwoven leather-and-chain strap.
Interior Description
Burgundy leather lining (inspired by Coco Chanel's orphanage uniform). Double flap construction with 'Mona Lisa' back pocket, zip pocket under top flap, and two interior slip compartments.
Closure Type
Interlocking 'CC' Turn-lock with secondary internal snap button closure on the second flap.
Strap & Handle Details
Sliding interwoven leather and gold-tone chain strap. Can be worn double (shoulder) or single (longer shoulder).
Craftsmanship Details
Features meticulous diamond alignment where the pattern continues uninterrupted from the body to the flap. Precision edge-dyeing and high-tensile strength stitching characterize the build.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the diamond quilting; high stitch count (approx. 10-12 stitches per inch); 'CHANEL Paris' engraving on internal hardware backplate; flat-head screws on clasp back plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in France or Italy. Produced in Chanel's specialized leather workshops with high-grade quality control.
Era & Period
Modern Classic (Introduction 1983). This specific silhouette represents the 'It-Bag' archetype of the 1990s through today.
Age Estimate
Circa 2010s-2020s based on the shiny finish of the caviar leather and font weight on the CC lock.
Cultural Significance
Recognized globally as a symbol of status and timeless style. It is the most frequent choice for investment-grade luxury accessories in pop culture history.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. Structure remains firm with no visible sagging; corners appear clean; hardware retains high luster without visible oxidation.
Value Estimate
Retail: $10,200 (approx. 2024 pricing). Resale: $7,500 - $9,500 depending on condition and presence of full set (box, card/chip, dust bag).
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dust bag with the chain tucked inside to avoid leather indentation. Clean with a soft, dry cloth. Professional 'bag spa' service recommended every 3-5 years for color refreshment.
Similar Handbags
Chanel 2.55 Reissue (uses Mademoiselle lock, no leather in chain); Chanel Boy Bag (more angular, 'Lego' lock); Saint Laurent Loulou (Y-quilted alternative).
Interesting Facts
The interior burgundy color was chosen to make it easier to find items inside. The zip pocket under the top flap was originally designed by Coco Chanel to hide love letters.