In the extensive Chanel secondary market, there are no shortages of rare objet d’art to discover and captivate even the most discerning luxury collector.
From the novelty 1993 Chanel quilted hot water bottle holder, to the appetizing 2015 quilted Chanel Menu clutch, each collectible is a testament to the brand’s innovative spirit and commitment to unparalleled luxury. In particular, Karl Lagerfeld’s tenure with Chanel produced some of the most offbeat, unique, and tongue-in-cheek collectors’ items, and his visionary approach and playful spirit resulted in some of the most iconic pieces on the secondary Luxury market. We have selected a few highlights to keep your eyes out for.
Chanel Brasserie Gabrielle Menu
With the Grand Palais transformed into a Parisian Bistrot for the 2015 Chanel Spring/Summer show, the corresponding Menu Clutch became a must-have offering. In the shape of a Bistrot Menu, this piece was punctuated with Chanel’s iconic front flap, and a Mademoiselle turnlock closure, making this a functional yet mouthwatering accessory.
The Philip Barland Limited Edition Surfboard
In 2016, acclaimed film director Baz Luhrmann created a Chanel No.5 short film, featuring supermodel Gisele Bündchen in a custom wetsuit with an exclusive Philippe Barland Limited Edition surfboard, produced in collaboration with Chanel. Offered in extremely small quantities, this rare and unique piece showcases Barland’s artistic vision combined with Chanel’s timeless elegance. We are delighted to feature a Chanel surfboard in our upcoming Luxury auction in April.
Chanel XXL Shopping Basket
The Chanel 2014, Autumn/Winter show, saw the Grand Palais transformed once again into a purpose-built Chanel Supermarket. A testament to Chanel’s ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary, the XXL Shopping Basket from this collection elevated an everyday object, to a chic accessory, dangling stylishly from the arms of top models, as they collected CC stamped essentials like Panettone, Ketchup, Champagne and laundry powder. The Chanel Supermarket goes down in history as one of Largerfeld’s most iconic and subversive creations, making the Chanel XXL Shopping basket a true collector’s item.
by Chanel
Chanel XL Hula Hoop Bag
Although Coco may have rolled in her grave in horror during the Chanel Spring/Summer 2013 collection, the Chanel Hula Hoop Bag holds a strong case for “the bigger, the better”. This oversized wheel shaped bag, with its plump and luxurious quilted lambskin and leather-wrapped handles, is a must-have for collectors who appreciate Karl Lagerfeld’s more tongue-in-cheek idea of practicality. The man-size bag was never intended for sale however, but for display as part of the collection, making it a collector’s dream if you can get your hands on one.
Chanel Reissue Anklet Pouch
The Chanel, 2008 Spring/Summer show, featured the Chanel Anklet Pouch, which may just be the nod to Lindsay Lohan that everyone needed. Styled as a mini lambskin 2.55, this compact, hands-free pouch, is perfect for carrying a card, key and lipstick, and embodies the brand’s commitment to both style and efficiency (when travelling light!).
The Chanel secondary market is a treasure trove of collectible and rare items that you simply won’t find in a Chanel boutique. Each unique piece, whether it’s a pair of Chanel Ice Skates or a Chanel Tennis Racket, reflect not only the brand’s luxurious heritage but also the creative spirit instilled by the visionaries of the time. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, delving into this vibrant marketplace offers the chance to discover exceptional items that encapsulate the essence of Chanel’s legacy over time, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking to curate a truly distinctive collection.
By Indigo Keane, Luxury Specialist
Top Image: A model wears a Chanel shopping basket creation by Karl Lagerfeld in the set of a Chanel Shopping Center in the Grand Palais in Paris, 2014. / Photo: Hendrik Ballhausen/dpa -NO WIRE SERVICE/KEIN BILDFUNK-/dpa/Alamy Live News
March 2025