I’m another tPFer willing to go the reseller route (with all of the appropriate caveats addressed). I agree with
@880, the factors involved with assessing price are so dependent on individual preferences and interests. It really does depend on what you’re looking for.
I tend to be interested in heritage leathers, specific colors and what I would call ‘interesting’ bags. These are hard to come by at the boutique (I’m rather picky), and even if available, I’m still subject to all of the oft discussed issues in today’s retail climate (pre-spend, limited SO options etc.).
I’m also motivated by value, especially as it’s correlated with condition. I don’t care if a bag is ‘old’ as long as the condition and price make sense; after all, one of the reasons I enjoy Hermes is precisely because the bags last, and can be repaired or refreshed as needed, and I’m not put off by not being the first person to use a bag.
But as I’ve pointed out elsewhere, it’s pretty easy to establish reasonable benchmarks for ranges of popular bags by clicking thru the big resellers and eBay. Comfort level within the range is where it gets personal; I suspect there are quite a few people in the ‘know it when I see it’ category.
