DESIGNER BRAND: Birks Made in France (gold tone interior stamp). Sold by Saks Fifth Avenue in the 1950s-1960s.
TYPE: Frame satchel with a top handle (a sleek, structured body; tailored gussets; a gold-Tone inside frame). Limited edition with a secret side locking mechanism.
UNIQUE FEATURE: a secret locking frame locking mechanism on the side.
CIRCA: In the 1950s-1960s, these amazing designer crocodile frame handbags could be ordered from Saks Fifth Avenue exclusively made for them in France and advertised in Vogue and Harper's Bazaar as must-have luxury.
SKIN: Crocodile Porosus (lap polished, in deep coffee brown), valuable belly skins of the highest symmetry, with umbilical marks.
METAL: Polished gold tone and gold plated frame and accents.
INTERIOR: Genuine leather (three wall slip pockets and a zippered compartment)
CONDITION: Excellent vintage condition with original tag. The skins are in wonderful shape; the interior is pristine; the handle is strong and intact, with a tiny barely visible professional repair; the clasp and locking mechanism work well; clean and ready to be used.
STYLIST'S TIP: An absolute must-have for any wardrobe to mix-n-match with any outfit in any color. A a true luxury necessity to satisfy most discriminating taste
HISTORY: For over a century, Saks Fifth Avenue department store - the purveyor of luxury - has been catering to the discriminating taste of their elegant clientele. The SFA label has always been synonymous with the best style and quality in fashion. Their exotic skin handbags have been often crafted by best designer brands in the U.S. or Europe. Specifically, their outstanding vintage crocodile and alligator handbags from the 1950s and 1960s have been in demand with fashionistas for decades.
BOOK: Read about collectible vintage alligator handbags by Saks Fifth Avenue in our fashion encyclopedia "Exotic Skin Handbags: Alligator & Crocodile" by Victoria Stowe on pp. 86-91. You're welcome to purchase an autographed copy of the book from our Malleries boutique.
