Who just bought the most expensive Birkin? Meet Shinsuke Sakimoto, whose company paid nearly US$10 million for the prototype: the Valuence Japan CEO was a pro footballer with the J1 League – but retired early
‘Jane Birkin’s embodiment of freedom and independent beauty resonates deeply with our philosophy of supporting women’s empowerment,’ stated Sakimoto, who plans to put the iconic bag on public display
Valuence Japan emphasised that the acquisition is not intended for resale. Rather, the company plans to make the bag accessible to the public, thereby protecting its cultural heritage.
But just who is Shinsuke Sakimoto? Here’s what to know about him.
He was a professional footballer
Sakimoto joined Gamba Osaka as a midfielder in 2001, making his J1 League debut in September at the age of 19. But with Gamba Osaka’s midfield roster stacked with talent, then-manager Akira Nishino told the young player his contract would not be renewed in 2003.
From Gamba, Sakimoto transferred to Sagawa Express Osaka in hopes of continuing his football career. However, during the 2004 off-season, he made the decision to retire – an early exit at age 22 that steered him towards entrepreneurship.
He founded Valuence Japan after retirement
After gaining experience in management working at his father’s second-hand shop, Sakimoto launched the luxury item buying company Nanboya in 2007. Four years later, he founded Valuence Japan, of which Nanboya is a main subsidiary, and assumed the role of representative director. Under his leadership, the company expanded into auction management, fine arts and antiques.