Chanel 2.55 Reissue Flap Bag 226 Aged Calfskin in Black with Gold Hardware
Shoulder Bag / Flap Bag with rectangular turnlock closure · Chanel (Privately Held), Luxury tier, world-renowned for timeless elegance and meticulous French craftsmanship.
Collection: Chanel 2.55 Reissue Collection (Permanent Collection based on Coco Chanel's original February 1955 design)
Style
Shoulder Bag / Flap Bag with rectangular turnlock closure
Brand
Chanel (Privately Held), Luxury tier, world-renowned for timeless elegance and meticulous French craftsmanship.
Material
Aged calfskin leather (distressed finish designed to develop a unique patina), quilted diamond pattern, hand-stitched construction with precise edge finishing.
Dimensions
Medium size 226: Approximately 28 cm x 19 cm x 9 cm (11 in x 7.5 in x 3.5 in) with a strap drop of approximately 28 cm (doubled) or 50 cm (single).
Description
An iconic masterpiece of luxury fashion, the Chanel 2.55 Reissue 226 in aged black calfskin with gold-tone hardware exudes understated vintage sophistication. Originally designed by Coco Chanel in February 1955, the Reissue was brought back by Karl Lagerfeld in 2005 to honor the 50th anniversary of the original design. The diamond quilting paired with the distressed aged calfskin and the classic rectangular Mademoiselle lock creates an effortless, lived-in luxury look that is both durable and endlessly chic.
Key Features
Distressed aged calfskin leather, rectangular Mademoiselle turnlock (as opposed to the CC lock), all-metal chain strap without leather woven through, double flap structure, and burgundy interior lining.
Material & Construction
Aged calfskin leather (distressed finish designed to develop a unique patina), quilted diamond pattern, hand-stitched construction with precise edge finishing.
Color & Pattern
Black with a subtle sheen, classic diamond quilting pattern, permanent offering.
Hardware Details
Gold-tone aged metal hardware (Mademoiselle lock, chain strap, and eyelets), engraved with Chanel branding, matte/brushed finish to complement the aged leather.
Interior Description
Burgundy leather lining, multiple interior compartments including a central zipped compartment, slip pockets, and the classic interior zip pocket under the first flap; features the Chanel heat stamp.
Closure Type
Mademoiselle rectangular turnlock closure, double flap design.
Strap & Handle Details
All-metal interwoven-free chain strap, adjustable to be worn as a double shoulder strap or a single long crossbody strap.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional artisanal craftsmanship featuring precise diamond quilt alignment across seams, meticulous edge painting, durable aged calfskin designed to resist everyday scratching, and flawless hardware attachment.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry in diamond quilting across the flap closure, correct font and placement of the interior Chanel heat stamp, proper weight and finish of the Mademoiselle lock, neat and even stitch count per inch.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in France or Italy, handcrafted in luxury ateliers following strict Chanel standards.
Era & Period
Classic Design originating from February 1955, with this specific modern Reissue line reintroduced by Karl Lagerfeld in February 2005.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 2005 and present day, given the standard Reissue production era.
Cultural Significance
The Chanel 2.55 is universally regarded as one of the most significant and influential handbag designs in fashion history, establishing the modern luxury shoulder bag category.
Condition Notes
Exterior shows intentional distressed texture with minimal wear, hardware retains its vintage brushed finish, structure remains firm and well-retained. Overall condition is Excellent.
Value Estimate
Estimated current retail price ranges between $9,000 and $10,500 USD, with strong secondary market retention depending on condition and inclusion of full set (box, dust bag, authenticity card/chip).
Care & Maintenance
Store stuffed with acid-free tissue paper inside its dust bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid harsh leather cleaners due to the aged/distressed finish; condition sparingly with specialized luxury leather balms.
Similar Handbags
Chanel Classic Medium Double Flap Bag (features CC turnlock and leather-woven chain), Chanel Boy Bag, Saint Laurent Sunset Medium Bag.
Interesting Facts
The name 2.55 comes from the date of its creation: February (2) 1955 (55). Coco Chanel introduced the shoulder strap to free women's hands from carrying clutch bags, a revolutionary concept at the time.