Hermès was founded in Paris in 1837.
Thierry Hermès established the company as a harness workshop in Paris. Its original business served carriage owners and produced high-quality bridles, harnesses, and other equestrian equipment. The firm's craftsmanship and association with luxury developed from this specialized beginning rather than from fashion or handbags.
As transportation changed, Hermès expanded into saddles, leather bags, luggage, scarves, clothing, watches, jewelry, and other goods. The company introduced its first silk scarf in 1937, a century after its founding. Its famous handbags, including the Kelly and Birkin, became important products much later.
Hermès is still controlled by descendants of the founding family through a complex shareholder structure. It is often compared with LVMH and other luxury groups, but Hermès is an independent company. The 1837 date refers to Thierry Hermès's original workshop, not the introduction date of any particular handbag or fashion collection.