I have an off-white handbag that had some darkening on the handles. I tried leather cleaner, but the patina was there to stay.
I took the handbag to Home Depot and asked to match the color. The person helped me pick a spray paint that matched PERFECTLY! I am absolutely thrilled with the results, but it does take quite a while for the paint the dry. I took before and after photos, but my computer is in the shop. When I get it back, I will post pics. BTW, the handles are smooth and matches the rest of the bag, that no one would know I did anything to the handles. I don't know if the the paint will crack as I have not used the bag yet, but I don't plan on using it everyday.