We all know that Rapha jerseys are made to last – I still have my Classic bought way back in 2007 and 10 years on it still gets a regular wearing. However, even I blinked when we found out about a 2007 limited edition jersey designed by Paul Smith to commemorate the London Grand Depart of the 2007 Tour de France on sale on eBay for £10,000!
It initially retailed for £175 a decade ago and the buyer had the foresight to “store it in an airtight bag in the dark since it was purchased.” It retains all its original tags and has never been worn.
The dark green Sportswool jersey has embroidered features including the Union Jack flag crossed with a Tricoleur. Paul Smith featured it in a retrospective of his work at the Design Museum in 2013. 15 per cent of the proceeds of the sale will be donated to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
