For over 70 years, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has delighted its intercontinental Business Class passengers with an iconic gift: Delft Blue miniature houses filled with Dutch genever (gin). These charming collectibles have become a hallmark of KLM’s premium service and a coveted item among collectors worldwide. Each miniature house is a replica of a real Dutch building, crafted with intricate detail to honor the Netherlands' rich architectural and cultural heritage. Every one of the houses is adorable enough to turn anyone into a collector. Here will give a deep dive of the history of these cute collectibles, and if your interest is piqued, check out the ones in our shop here.
As of 2024, the collection boasts 105 different houses, each representing a piece of Dutch history or culture. From quaint canal houses in Amsterdam to iconic landmarks, each miniature tells a story. Over the years, these items have transcended their original purpose as a gift, evolving into sought-after collectibles.
The tradition of giving Delftware replicas began in the early 1950s at a time when commercial aviation industry regulations prohibited airlines from gifting passengers for fear that it represented unfair competition. KLM came up with a clever workaround of the regulations: serve a drink in a small replica Dutch house, effectively creating a unique cocktail vessel for their ‘to-go’ drinks. To this day, the airline continues this tradition, unveiling a new house every year on October 7th to mark KLM’s anniversary.
A KLM plane leaving England to return to Schipol Airport, near Amsterdam.
Why Are KLM Miniature Houses So Special?
One of the reasons these Delft Blue houses are so popular is their exclusivity. Because they are only available to KLM’s intercontinental Business Class passengers, these miniatures carry an air of prestige. Adding to their allure, the Dutch gin—Bols Genever—which fills each house is a traditional spirit that reflects the Netherlands' centuries-old distilling traditions.
Another factor adding to the popularity of the houses is their deep connection to Dutch culture. For many collectors, the real appeal of the miniatures is the backstory of the buildings they portray. Every house in the collection represents an actual building in the Netherlands, but there are also houses from both Aruba and Curaçao (island territories of the Netherlands Antilles). And in fact, the ‘houses’ aren’t all houses, with some being replicas of buildings of historical or architectural interest. Among the most popular houses are the Anne Frank House, the Rembrandt House, the Heineken Brewery and the residence of the Dutch king.
KLM delft blue houses at the entrance of KLM Crown Lounge at Schiphol Airport
How Are the Houses Chosen?
The method by which the houses are selected and eventually revealed to the waiting world of collectors is an intriguing story which only adds to the mystique and allure of these cherished mementos. The featured houses are picked from an intense competition for the selection of iconic buildings around the country. Throughout the Netherlands, Dutch towns and provinces campaign for KLM to feature their own landmarks as miniatures because when a building is chosen it creates a huge tourism boost and a growth in real estate value. A dedicated team reviews the submissions (there are generally between 10 and 20 every year) before creating a shortlist of five to pass to KLM’s president and CEO, who makes the final decision.
A Collector’s Dream
The KLM Delft Blue miniature houses have created a special ‘win-win’ scenario for all interested participants in this unique collecting craze. For collectors, they offer an exciting opportunity to pursue and obtain adorable souvenirs. For business travelers they represent a certain source of pride in being the first to get their hands on the newest house with each new annual offering. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines sees a bump in business class bookings in the days following each release. The excitement and anticipation surrounding each annual release comes to a peak at KLM’s October 7 birthday bash, an invite-only, VIP-studded affair attended by its execs, top corporate customers, and aviation journalists.
Over the years, KLM miniature houses have become much more than aviation souvenirs—they’re valuable collectibles. Some houses, particularly limited editions or special releases, have appreciated significantly in value, with certain pieces fetching thousands of dollars at auctions. Collectors often scour antique shops, online marketplaces and specialized auctions to find rare additions for their collections.
To make collecting easier, KLM even offers a dedicated app that provides detailed information about each house, its history and its significance. With a number printed on the back of each house corresponding to their chronological release dates, it’s easy to keep track of which houses you own and which ones you might most want to add to your collection.
KLM houses on display within the Business Class lounge at Schipol Airport.
A Timeless Tradition
As the oldest airline in the world continuously operating under one name, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is committed to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Netherlands. The Delft Blue houses are more than just a souvenir—they’re a symbol of Dutch culture and a reminder of the golden age of air travel. Each house carries a piece of history, making it a conversation starter and a treasured keepsake. For anyone who loves vintage items with a story, these miniature houses are the perfect addition to a collection.
Whether you’re looking to start a new collection or offer something truly special in your vintage shop, KLM Delft Blue miniature houses are a timeless and meaningful choice. They’re not just collectibles—they’re a celebration of culture, craftsmanship and the joy of travel.