Vintage Celine Triomphe Emblem Long Wallet / Clutch in Black Box Calfskin
Clutch / Long Continental Wallet · Celine (LVMH), luxury tier. This piece dates from the pre-Phoebe Philo era when the brand focused on classic Parisian equestrian aesthetics.
Collection: Vintage Triomphe Blason Line, permanent collection during the late 20th century.
Style
Clutch / Long Continental Wallet
Brand
Celine (LVMH), luxury tier. This piece dates from the pre-Phoebe Philo era when the brand focused on classic Parisian equestrian aesthetics.
Material
Smooth Box Calfskin leather known for its high-sheen finish and structured feel. Construction features turned-edge stitching and meticulously machine-stitched borders.
Dimensions
Width: 19cm (7.5"), Height: 10cm (4"), Depth: 2cm (0.8"). Size variant: Standard Continental.
Description
A sophisticated example of vintage Celine, this long wallet doubles as a minimalist evening clutch. The smooth calfskin provides a lustrous backdrop for the iconic embossed Triomphe emblem, inspired by the chains surrounding the Arc de Triomphe.
Key Features
Central embossed Blason logo, slim rectangular profile, and high-quality Box Calfskin that develops a unique patina over time.
Material & Construction
Smooth Box Calfskin leather known for its high-sheen finish and structured feel. Construction features turned-edge stitching and meticulously machine-stitched borders.
Color & Pattern
Black (Noir); features a central heat-embossed 'Triomphe' or 'Blason' logo which is a historical signature of the house.
Hardware Details
Minimalist hardware; likely features a gold-tone or brass interior snap or zipper, though the exterior is primarily understated leather.
Interior Description
Typically lined in matching smooth leather or burgundy moiré fabric, featuring multiple card slots, a bill compartment, and a zippered coin pocket.
Closure Type
Tri-fold or bi-fold design with a hidden magnetic or snap button closure.
Strap & Handle Details
None; this is a hand-held accessory designed to be carried as a clutch or kept inside a larger handbag.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent stitch tension with no loose threads; the embossed logo shows deep, crisp definition which is difficult to replicate in counterfeits.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetrical embossing of the Triomphe logo, fine stitch count, and the specific luster of authentic vintage Celine Box Calfskin. Internal heat stamps should read 'CELINE PARIS'.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy or France; Celine vintage leather goods from this era are noted for exceptional European leather sourcing.
Era & Period
Vintage late 1980s to early 1990s; characterized by the house's focus on bourgeois Parisian style before the minimalist revolution.
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995 based on the specific style of the embossed Blason logo and the Box Calfskin quality.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Old Celine' heritage that Hedi Slimane revived in 2018, making these original vintage pieces highly collectible again.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Light surface scuffing visible on the front; structure remains intact with straight stitching and no significant corner loss.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD depending on interior condition and presence of original packaging.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dust bag to avoid surface scratches. Use a high-quality wax-based leather conditioner specifically for Box Calf to maintain the sheen.
Similar Handbags
Vintage Hermes Bearn Wallet (higher price point), Gucci Blondie Wallet (more decorative hardware).
Interesting Facts
The Triomphe logo was created by founder Céline Vipiana in 1972 after her car broke down in front of the Arc de Triomphe and she noticed the pattern on the chain links.