I love the Bolide 25 I got few weeks ago, with the Anniversary Edition Twilly on it is just wonderful! 25 is a perfect size, it’s not too small and also not too bulky!
Ode to the bolide
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I’m not very clear as to the actual differences between bolide 1923 and the ‘other’ bolide and would appreciate some clarification.
Is there a name for the ‘other’ and could one of the bolide aficionados here clarify the difference please?
Looked it up and posting a link from Sotheby’s- though usually I don’t trust on line info unless it’s corroborated by long term TPF members…
I dunno about being an aficionado or long term member but can add this. The Bolide we have known and loved for years, originally known as the Bugatti, has the oval leather piece meant to be embossed with one's initials as well as the extra defining seam, lock and keys. The first bag made with a zip closure by Hermes, it was also meant to be a travel bag for car trips, hence the original name. The newer 1923 version now comes in mini and various sizes, some Limited Editions eg with wheels, skateboard base, Desorde and all do not have the leather oval or the seam. I believe the 1923 was redesigned/ simplified/ modified to commemorate the centenary of the original Bolide.
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I think Sothebys has mostly gotten it right. The 'other' bolide is called the Bolide (so the two versions are Bolide and Bolide 1923). The Bolide has the oval patch, and the handles are slightly longer, accommodating over the wrist/crook of the elbow carry. The Bolide 1923 handles are shorter, and some people have difficulty getting them past the wrist so this version can for some end up being only carried by hand. The only other aspect is that some of the Bolide 1923's have an additional slip pocket in the front. I'm not certain when that was added, or indeed if it was original to the 1923 and then later removed. Calling @papertiger who knows a lot more about bolides than I.
Just to add: There is a thread on the Japanese super catalog which would have all the styles and sizes prior to a certain date in pictures. Some times it is very hard to keep track of the evolution of all the styles.
I think you've basically stated most of the differences but I think there are are basically 7 distinct Bolides.
1 Bolide 1923 (original shape) it's the newest as well as the oldest (1923). It has more pronounced shoulders, no strap and shorter handles.
2. The Bolide with the patch (for a monogram) is a more domed shape that has been around since the 1930s. Most smaller sizes have a strap.
3. Web Bolide 1923 with the front pockets. Same shape as the 1923 and has been available in travel size (45) as well as smaller. The larger is semi-lined in leather. No strap.
4. Bolides (like 2) with hard compartment and lever locks (these were available before the 1980s McPherson, named after the model Elle). No straps.
5. Bolide Relax: like 1 but in Sikkim leather and travel size. No strap.
6. Travel Bolides: Like 2 but canvas-lined and 45. No strap.
7. Bolide Secret: A small (24cm) Swift leather Bolide 1923 with a zipped compartment. Like 4, these are quite N-S (27cm tall). No strap. Short run.
Bolide on wheels could be another, but more a novelty.
Men's Ltd Eds are usually Bolide 1923 in travel sizes (45).
Anymore versions, please feel free to add.
The Bolide Désordre does have the patch despite it being on a 1923 shape. The other key difference between the 1923 and the Bolide is the Bolide (#2 in the very thorough list made by @papertiger) has stitching on the outside below the handles and the oval patch. The Bolide Relax has the same exterior stitching, thus is more similar to the Bolide.
Also, I recently saw this beauty and thought I would share. It’s a 45cm travel Bolide in the shape of the 1923. The design is Soies Volantes in a silk velvet. The handles and piping are in Box Rouge H.
Also, I recently saw this beauty and thought I would share. It’s a 45cm travel Bolide in the shape of the 1923. The design is Soies Volantes in a silk velvet. The handles and piping are in Box Rouge H.
I don't use the clochette and lock since they add weight to the bag. Just hang a Pegasus charm to dress up so it looks a little more hip.
I leave them on. The keys tied to the handle and the lock attached to the metal bar.
I wouldn't tie the lock as a charm, hanging and swinging, because it may scratch the leather. Keys are protected by the leather cloche. It's something to watch out for with all the Cadenas or charms with harder fittings. Because the Bolide has a dome shape, I think it's more susceptible to 'smileys' than a most other shaped bags.
What a stunning bag, @Deneuveness! Which color red is it? Thanks!!
Thank you so much! It is Rubis.
Congrats, very beautiful colour. I got the same in black and it is the bag I got instead of Kelly 25 (I am not a Kelly girl, but I like the idea of a bag like that - lady like, shoulder strap, etc). Totally obsessed.
Thank you Lara!
I also love Kelly but no rush in getting it I believe bolide 25 is a bag that will last for a long time. Classic, elegant, practical, either hand held or crossbody! I am in love with it too
Look gorgeous! You and the bag
