We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
This vintage Hermès Cadena Hippopotamus Charm in silver-tone metal is in very good condition, featuring engraved detailing and a distinctive hippopotamus motif. Whether styled on a favourite handbag for a city day out or used to elevate an evening look, it adds a playful yet refined Hermès touch.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: What exactly is the Hermès Cadena Hippopotamus Charm? A: It is a vintage Hermès metal charm in the shape of a hippopotamus from the brand’s collectible cadena line. This example has a silver-tone finish with engraved detailing and a compact padlock-style design.
Q: Is this charm considered a collectible Hermès motif? A: Yes. Hippopotamus cadenas are widely collected by Hermès enthusiasts and are generally associated with the house’s 2005 Année des Fleuves theme, which makes them especially appealing to collectors of vintage Hermès metal pieces.
Q: How can I style or use it? A: It can be styled as a bag charm, keyring accent, or decorative pendant-style piece on a chain or cord. Many collectors pair cadena charms with Birkin or Kelly bags, but it can also be used on other handbags if you like a statement metal accent.
Q: Will it fit on my bag? A: This piece measures approximately 4 x 3.5 x 1.5 cm, so it works best on medium to large handbags or as a decorative charm rather than a tiny mini-bag detail. Please compare these measurements with your bag’s handle, strap ring, or hardware before purchasing.
Q: Is it a functional lock or mainly decorative? A: Hermès cadena pieces are padlock-style charms and some are used on compatible Hermès bags, but most buyers choose vintage motif cadenas primarily for their collectible and decorative appeal. Compatibility can vary depending on the bag and hardware style.
Q: What condition is this item in? A: It is listed in Very Good Condition. The hardware is described as shiny with light scratches, which is typical for a vintage metal charm and part of normal pre-owned wear.
Q: Does it come with a box, dust bag, key, or other extras? A: No extras are listed for this piece. According to the product information, it comes with no additional items, so please assume only the charm itself is included unless otherwise confirmed.
Q: Could a metal charm scratch bag hardware? A: Any metal charm can leave light contact marks if it rubs against other metal parts during wear. If you prefer to minimise this, attach it where movement is limited and store it separately when not in use.
Q: How should I care for a vintage metal Hermès charm? A: Wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth after use and keep it away from water, perfume, and harsh cleaning products. Store it separately in a soft pouch to help reduce rubbing and additional surface scratches.
Q: How do you authenticate it? A: Every item at A Retro Tale is carefully vetted by in-house experts using detailed authenticity checks, so you can shop vintage with confidence.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
