Q: What are the measurements and how can I carry the Classique 16?
A: Approx. 32 × 23.5 × 12 cm (W × H × D) with a handle drop of about 12 cm and a removable leather shoulder strap with about 46 cm drop. It can be carried by hand, on the shoulder, or as a higher cross-body depending on your build.

Q: What typically fits inside this size?
A: Daily essentials such as a long wallet, phone, keys, sunglasses case, small cosmetics pouch and an A5 diary fit comfortably. It also fits a tablet; a slim 13-inch laptop may fit without a padded sleeve, but we recommend comparing your device to the measurements and avoiding overfilling to preserve the bag’s structure.

Q: Is the shoulder strap adjustable?
A: The Classique 16 features a removable leather strap with an approx. 46 cm drop. On this version the length is not designed for significant adjustment; if you need a longer cross-body drop, consider wearing it on the shoulder or exploring other sizes in the 16 line.

Q: How secure is the closure and what does the padlock do?
A: The flap closes with a metal turn-lock. The accompanying padlock and keys (housed in the clochette) can be attached to the closure’s loop to deter quick access, though it is best considered a stylish security detail rather than a high-security lock.

Q: How is the interior organised?
A: The Classique 16 is known for practical organisation: two main compartments, an inner zipped pocket, an inner flat pocket and a flat pocket under the flap at the front for slim items like tickets or receipts.

Q: What leather is it made from and how should I care for it?
A: Crafted in smooth calf leather with a leather-lined interior. To care for it, wipe gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth, dry immediately, avoid prolonged exposure to rain, oils or heat, and store it lightly stuffed in its dust bag away from direct sunlight. Avoid dark denim or other colour-transfer risks against the leather.

Q: What is the story behind the name “16”?
A: The bag is named after the maison’s historic Paris address at 16 Rue Vivienne and was introduced under Hedi Slimane in 2018, referencing refined 1960s Celine codes in a contemporary top-handle design.

Q: How does the Classique 16 compare to the Soft 16 and the 16 Bucket?
A: The Classique 16 is structured with a firm silhouette and top handle. The Soft 16 offers a more supple body with larger, easier capacity for work essentials. The 16 Bucket adopts a bucket shape but keeps the signature 16 turn-lock motif for a more relaxed look.

Q: What comes with this specific item?
A: Please see the product information on this page. For this piece, the product information lists: dust bag, detachable shoulder strap, padlock, keys and clochette.

Q: What is the condition of this bag?
A: This item is graded Very Good. There are light scratches on the corners; the interior shows a light trace of use; the hardware is shiny with light scratches. Please review the photos and condition notes for full details.

Q: How do you authenticate this bag?
A: Every piece at A Retro Tale is rigorously vetted by our in-house experts through multi-point checks of materials, stitching, hardware, stamps and construction details. We stand behind the authenticity of all items and are happy to provide further information on request.