Chanel Classic Medium Double Flap in Black Patent Leather with Silver Hardware
Shoulder Bag / Double Flap Bag · Chanel (owned by the Wertheimer family), Haute Couture/Ultra-Luxury tier. Designed originally by Coco Chanel (2.55) and updated by Karl Lagerfeld (Classic Flap).
Collection: Chanel Classic Permanent Collection
Style
Shoulder Bag / Double Flap Bag
Brand
Chanel (owned by the Wertheimer family), Haute Couture/Ultra-Luxury tier. Designed originally by Coco Chanel (2.55) and updated by Karl Lagerfeld (Classic Flap).
Material
Patent leather (glossy finish coated calfskin) with signature diamond quilting. Structured double-flap construction featuring an internal flap and external flap with hand-turned edges.
Dimensions
Width: 25.5 cm (10 inches), Height: 15.5 cm (6 inches), Depth: 6.5 cm (2.5 inches). This is the standard 'Medium' size (formerly 25cm).
Description
The quintessential 'It-Bag,' this Chanel Classic Double Flap is rendered in striking black patent leather. Its high-gloss finish provides a modern, edgy contrast to the traditional diamond quilting, making it a versatile piece for both day and evening wear.
Key Features
Signature CC turn-lock, diamond quilting aligned perfectly across the flap and body, interwoven leather/metal chain, and the double-flap interior organization.
Material & Construction
Patent leather (glossy finish coated calfskin) with signature diamond quilting. Structured double-flap construction featuring an internal flap and external flap with hand-turned edges.
Color & Pattern
Classic Black with a high-shine patent finish. Feature's Chanel's iconic diamond-shaped quilting pattern.
Hardware Details
Silver-tone hardware (SHW), including the signature 'CC' turn-lock clasp and metal grommets. The chain is the classic interwoven leather and metal style.
Interior Description
Burgundy or Black leather lining (dependent on year). Features a 'smile' pocket on the back, a zippered 'love letter' pocket under the outer flap, and double interior slip pockets.
Closure Type
CC Turn-lock on the outer flap and a snap button on the interior flap.
Strap & Handle Details
Adjustable sliding chain strap with interwoven patent leather. Can be worn long for a single shoulder drop or doubled for a shorter carry.
Craftsmanship Details
High stitch count (typically 10+ stitches per inch) to prevent leather tearing. Masterful edge painting and perfect alignment of the 11-point diamond quilting pattern.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of diamond quilting (diamonds should line up where the flap meets the body), double-C logo center placement, and the specific 'flat-head' or 'star' screw heads typically found on the back of the lock plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in France or Italy. Produced in Chanel's specialized ateliers known for high-stitch-count precision.
Era & Period
Modern Classic (Karl Lagerfeld Era styling). The CC turn-lock was introduced in the early 1980s as an update to the Mademoiselle lock.
Age Estimate
Estimated late 2000s to mid-2010s based on the puffiness of the quilting and the specific sheen of the patent leather characteristic of that era.
Cultural Significance
Considered the most famous handbag in the world, the Classic Flap is a primary symbol of luxury and status in global fashion culture.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The patent leather shows high luster with some minor finger printing. Structure appears firm. Hardware shows light hairline scratches common with careful use.
Value Estimate
Current retail is approximately $10,000+. Resale market value for patent variants typically ranges from $5,500 to $7,500 depending on condition and certificate inclusion.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid contact with dark fabrics (especially denim) to prevent color transfer onto the patent. Store in a dust bag away from heat. Clean only with a damp, soft cloth.
Similar Handbags
Chanel Reissue 2.55 (no CC lock), Chanel Boy Bag (bolder design), Dior Lady Dior (structured top handle).
Interesting Facts
The 'Love Letter' pocket on the internal flap was inspired by Coco Chanel’s desire for a secret place to hide her love letters.