Birkenstock Gizeh Big Buckle in High Gloss Black
Footwear (Thong Sandal) - Note: The provided image is of shoes, not a handbag. · Birkenstock (LVMH - Majority Stake), German heritage footwear brand, Luxury/Premium Tier.
Collection: Big Buckle Collection, Permanent/Seasonal high-fashion variant of the classic Gizeh line.
Style
Footwear (Thong Sandal) - Note: The provided image is of shoes, not a handbag.
Brand
Birkenstock (LVMH - Majority Stake), German heritage footwear brand, Luxury/Premium Tier.
Material
Birko-Flor (synthetic) or Leather upper with High Gloss finish; Cork-latex footbed, EVA sole, piumato (smooth) leather lining on the footbed.
Dimensions
Size 38 (EU), 245mm length; approximately 10cm width at widest point; variable height based on arch.
Description
This is a Birkenstock Gizeh sandal featuring the 'Big Buckle' hardware, which transforms the traditional silhouette into a more statement-oriented accessory. The high gloss finish and gold hardware provide a sleek, luxury aesthetic compared to the original matte utility version.
Key Features
Oversized gold buckle, piumato smooth leather-covered footbed (instead of suede), and high gloss black strap finish.
Material & Construction
Birko-Flor (synthetic) or Leather upper with High Gloss finish; Cork-latex footbed, EVA sole, piumato (smooth) leather lining on the footbed.
Color & Pattern
High Gloss Black; classic solid black with a mirror-shine finish. No pattern.
Hardware Details
Gold-tone oversized pin buckle (Big Buckle) and matching gold-tone branded rivets. High-shine plating.
Interior Description
Smooth black piumato leather lining over the cork footbed; gold-foiled Birkenstock logo, size (38), and 'Made in Germany' stamp.
Closure Type
Adjustable gold-tone pin buckle on the side strap.
Strap & Handle Details
Single T-strap (thong style) with adjustable side buckle, approximately 1-1.5cm width widening at the instep.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-molded cork-latex footbed, clean gold-foil stamping, smooth edge-staining on the piumato leather, and secure hardware riveting.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic deep heel cup, gold foil logo alignment, '38 245' sizing stamps, branded rivets with crisp 'BIRKENSTOCK' text, and authentic blue box design.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Germany; manufactured in high-capacity industrial facilities with stringent quality controls for orthopedic support.
Era & Period
Modern Contemporary (2010s-2020s design); the 'Big Buckle' variant was introduced to elevate the brand into high-fashion.
Age Estimate
Contemporary production, likely 2020-2024 based on the 'Big Buckle' branding and gold foil stamping style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Ugly Chic' movement where comfort-first footwear became a staple in high fashion, leading to collaborations with Dior, Valentino, and Manolo Blahnik.
Condition Notes
Appears Pristine/New; comes with original blue Birkenstock box. No visible wear to the footbed or scuffing on the gloss coating.
Value Estimate
$160 - $180 USD (Retail); $70 - $120 USD (Resale depending on condition).
Care & Maintenance
Clean gloss straps with a damp cloth; avoid extreme heat (which can dry out cork); use cork sealer periodically; avoid soaking in water.
Similar Handbags
Not applicable (Footwear). Similar shoes: Birkenstock Madrid Big Buckle, Arizona Big Buckle; Competitors: Mephisto Helen, Naot sandals.
Interesting Facts
Birkenstock began in 1774. The Gizeh model is one of their most popular silhouettes globally, often associated with ‘Boho-chic’ and ergonomic fashion.