No matter where you shop, "top tier" gets thrown around constantly.

But after looking at enough bags, I don't think that label tells the whole story anymore.

I've seen bags with beautiful leather but awkward proportions. Others had excellent construction yet hardware that immediately felt off. Then there are bags that don't have one standout feature, but somehow everything works together so well that they look convincing from every angle.

That's what got me thinking.

When you describe a Hermès rep as truly exceptional, what are you actually judging?

Is it one specific element that carries the whole bag, or is it the balance of everything shape, leather, stitching, hardware, edge paint, hand feel, even how the bag develops after months of use?

I'm interested because everyone seems to have a different standard. Some people notice structure first, others care almost entirely about leather quality. I'd like to know what separates "really good" from "this is as close as it gets" in your eyes.