There are some good guides that are written by people who actually know what they're talking about.
But even some of those, unless frequently updated can become stale and/or obsolete. Since Coach makes so many changes to their "rules," what was a rule at one time is no longer "always" the rule.
The most consistent "rule" about Coach is its inconsistency. Every "rule" has exceptions.
Here are some posts with helpful information.
http://forum.purseblog.com/coach-re...aq-and-reference-info-158400.html#post3415623
I totally see what you are saying. It changes so much, again I looked at my older Coach bag in comparison to some of the guide pics and saw inconsistencies. For example, my Coach tag does not have metal in the little hold where the chain goes through like the picture which is another authentic Coach bag (I assume newer). This much have been another thing they changed. Thanks!