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 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 | About us
Perfect for cocktail parties, weddings or gallery openings, this vintage Hermès Mombasa choker in sterling silver adds sleek, understated shine to evening and smart-casual looks. The open cuff, slip-on design makes it an effortless finishing touch to tailored suiting or a little black dress.
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 is the Hermès Mombasa choker? A: It is a rigid, open‑ended torque (collar) necklace by Hermès, crafted in sterling silver 925 with a sleek, polished finish. It rests just above the collarbone and slips on without a clasp for a sculptural, modern look.
Q: What is it made of and how is it hallmarked? A: The Mombasa is made from sterling silver (92.5% pure silver). Authentic pieces are typically stamped inside with Hermès and 925/Ag 925, and many bear French assay hallmarks and maker’s marks. Stamping placement can vary slightly by piece.
Q: Is the choker adjustable? A: It is semi‑rigid and intended as a slip‑on design rather than adjustable. Avoid pulling the ends far apart. To put it on, slide it from the side of the neck with a gentle twist. Repeated bending can stress the silver, and professional resizing is generally not recommended for this construction.
Q: How will this piece fit me? A: This specific necklace has an inner perimeter of approximately 30 cm. Measure your neck at the base and allow 1–2 cm for comfort; torque chokers are designed to sit close to the neck. Other Mombasa examples have been made in larger circumferences, so please compare your measurement to the 30 cm size listed here.
Q: Is it heavy to wear? A: The design uses a hollow, rounded silver profile that gives visual presence without excessive weight. Comparable Mombasa pieces at auction have weighed roughly 71–85 g, though weight can vary between examples.
Q: Will sterling silver tarnish? How should I care for it? A: Yes, sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time. After wearing, wipe with a soft cloth and store in a dry, anti‑tarnish pouch or box. For cleaning, use mild soap and warm water, dry thoroughly, and finish with a quality silver‑polishing cloth. Avoid harsh chemical dips and abrasive cleaners.
Q: Is sterling silver 925 hypoallergenic? A: Sterling silver is 92.5% silver alloyed mainly with copper and is generally considered hypoallergenic and nickel‑free. Individual sensitivities vary; if you have a known metal allergy and experience irritation, discontinue wear and consult a jeweller.
Q: How do I wear and style a torque choker? A: Slip it on from the side and let it sit just above the collarbone. The clean collar shape makes a strong standalone statement and pairs well with open necklines. It can be layered with finer chains, though pendants may not sit correctly on a rigid collar and could mark the surface.
Q: What’s included with this item and how is it authenticated? A: This piece is sold with its box, as listed under Accessories. Every item at A Retro Tale is vetted by our in‑house experts using multi‑point checks of materials, hallmarks and stamps, construction and finish, and comparison with known authentic references.
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 is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
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.
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.
