There are several factors to consider. A Rimowa bag, for instance, will inevitably require servicing if it sustains dents or if the wheels break. Fortunately, Rimowa can repair most issues. However, if you are outside the United States and travelling internationally, good luck getting your Haliburton or Sterling Pacific case repaired in a timely manner. Personally, I’m fond of Haliburton cases, but their wheels simply cannot compare to the smooth glide of a Rimowa spinner.

The only commendable thing LVMH has done for Rimowa is to expand its global presence beyond Europe and major US cities. I still recall a time not too long ago—perhaps 10 or 15 years—when I found myself in Dubai with a damaged Rimowa bag. Having just returned from Russia, I discovered that there were no official Rimowa stores in Dubai, save for a reseller (Mosafer, if memory serves). I was directed to a rather dubious establishment on the outskirts of the city, surrounded by car repair shops. The technician there, after a cursory inspection, declared the bag a write-off and issued a certificate to that effect.

Ironically, as soon as I was back in Germany—in Frankfurt, to be specific—a Rimowa technician managed to repair the bag. This was in the pre-LVMH era, and they even fixed it free of charge, likely due to my long-standing patronage and recommendations to friends, no fuss.

When it comes to after-sales support, Rimowa is, in my view, unparalleled, even with their current pricing. One must simply accept that these cases are built to last a lifetime and maintain them accordingly. I own six or seven pieces, most of which I’ve had for over a decade.

I personally prefer the pre-LVMH cases, which, if you can find them, are excellent. The last pre-LVMH case I acquired includes the e-tag, which was quite the novelty at the time. While some may disagree, I believe the build quality of the pre-LVMH models is superior, even if the interiors lack the sleek grey finish one might expect of luxury luggage.

LVMH’s primary focus, it seems, is on selling high-margin items such as leather bags, effectively transforming Rimowa into a fashion brand rather than continuing to innovate and produce luggage that discerning travellers actually need.

I recently purchased a trunk and dream of Rimowa making a Limbo (or Hybrid) trunk version……to save weight. Who wants the essential junk in shocking pink?