Hermès Headphones: The $15,000 Statement Piece Redefining Luxury Sound
Hermès is making headlines again. But this time, it’s not for a handbag. The French maison has unveiled its first pair of headphones—and they cost more than most used cars. Priced at $15,000, this latest release fuses high design with high fidelity, targeting those for whom audio is not just an experience, but a statement.
Sound Meets Savoir-Faire
Crafted by Ateliers Horizons, Hermès’ elite bespoke division, the headphones are built using hand-stitched cowhide leather and gleaming metallic accents. Available in five colors including Rouge H, noir, naturel (dark beige), chocolat, and Prussian blue, the design echoes the timeless aesthetics found in the maison’s iconic bags.
According to Hermès, each pair is assembled with the same precision and attention to detail applied to its Birkin or Kelly. But unlike those models, these aren’t available through traditional waiting lists. For now, they’re quietly listed on the brand’s Dutch e-commerce site.
From Birdcages to Boomboxes
Ateliers Horizons is no stranger to eccentricity. Led by creative director Axel de Beaufort since 2012, the Paris-based atelier has turned out bespoke marvels like lacquered DJ tables, foosball sets, and even canoes. The headphones are the latest addition to a growing collection of sound-related objects tailored to a clientele that demands both artistry and uniqueness.
“We are trying to be a bit crazy every day,” de Beaufort said in an earlier interview, emphasizing the workshop’s experimental ethos.
Luxury Meets Utility?
While many might question the practicality of a $15,000 audio accessory, it wouldn’t be the first time Hermès has successfully merged extravagance with everyday objects. Their long-standing partnership with Apple, creating exclusive watch straps for the Apple Watch, has become a case study in brand synergy.
And unlike traditional headphones, these aren’t designed for audiophiles alone—they’re for collectors, aesthetes, and those who treat luxury as a lifestyle. In a market where status symbols evolve quickly, Hermès is once again redefining the rules.
Conclusion
Forget the Birkin. This summer, the most coveted Hermès accessory might be the one that plays your favorite playlist. The question is: will you dare to wear it outside?