Hey everyone! I was wondering if LV can replace the handle on Hard Luggage like the Bisten or Alzer?
The LV Rescue Club
- Thread starter mmcgurgan
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Having just recently returned from Europe, I brought back in my hot little hands a brand new LV Eva Monogram Canvas and Evora Damier Azur. While frantically searching for anything on how to protect my new bags, I stumbled on this great club and was quickly inspired!
I've received my first rescue, a classic Alma Monogram Canvas bag last week. Though I'm a little disappointed to find out the bag has been relined and thus had none of its original interior (note to self: don't assume anything when buying on ebay!), it looks genuine enough to proceed. It was also a decent deal (not a steal) at $177.50 however I would recommend patience in searching as I saw a similar condition bag sell for less a few days later.
Long term plan for the bag is to have all the leather replaced so I was keen on experimenting. Having read several blogs about Apple Garde, Magic Eraser, and baby wipes, I've decided to test them all out!
I'm heading out this morning to pick up my supplies so I can start today - be sure to check back on the results! :0)
I've received my first rescue, a classic Alma Monogram Canvas bag last week. Though I'm a little disappointed to find out the bag has been relined and thus had none of its original interior (note to self: don't assume anything when buying on ebay!), it looks genuine enough to proceed. It was also a decent deal (not a steal) at $177.50 however I would recommend patience in searching as I saw a similar condition bag sell for less a few days later.
Long term plan for the bag is to have all the leather replaced so I was keen on experimenting. Having read several blogs about Apple Garde, Magic Eraser, and baby wipes, I've decided to test them all out!
I'm heading out this morning to pick up my supplies so I can start today - be sure to check back on the results! :0)
:tpfrox:
Okay, so I clearly had WAY too much time on my hands this weekend! I've gone ahead with my project having received my Apple Garde in the mail last week, and purchased my Magic Eraser & baby wipes at my convenience store yesterday. Here's my immediate input after going through three (yes three) rounds of cleaning:
Observations/Tips
See before/after pics below.
Observations/Tips
- Yes folks, the Magic Eraser works and how! Almost instantly after cleaning vachetta, a great honey brown color began to surface as the dirt disappeared!
- Shiny patina? No more. Despite almost immediately putting Apple Garde conditioner on the leather (twice) and letting it dry overnight, the luster that existed even with all the dirt is now permanently gone. That being said, the vachetta still looks healthy and maybe the shine is simply build up from oil on our hands - either way I can't say but rest assured, a cleaning will get rid of it completely.
- Apple Garde cleaner vs. Magic Eraser? The winner hands down is the Magic Eraser. I attempted the Apple Garde cleaner on day 2 to see if it would be a better cleaner for watermarked areas that remained but if anything, the cleaning fluids seemed to be creating more watermarks or it may be a bit too abrasive. I immediately went over the treated area with the Magic Eraser to avoid any damage and it cleared it up. I'm pretty sure that should be your goal: to clean the vachetta while minimizing the amount of moisture the leather will absorb at any given time.
- Use a soft cloth! For conditioning, I started out with a wash cloth, then a kitchen towel and finally opted for a shine cloth which you can get at any shoe repair shop. It makes a difference!
See before/after pics below.
Whosama, thank you very much for sharing! I can see the big differences, especially for the bottom part! Good job! 
Whosama - Thank you so much for sharing your rescue project! Your tips are such a valued resource for future rescuers. Bravo!
Thanks for the kudos! Though the experience has taken just a matter of days, it's been a labor of love and care. I may end up with a sentimental connection to this bag I didn't expect!
Next step is to take the bag to the LV store for a TLC treatment which I'll be doing this week. I'm hoping to keep the hardware but replace all the vachetta since all four corners of the bag are splitting. The interior is in great shape as is the MC so I'm confident it will be 'approved' for a much needed face lift. I can't wait! I'll be sure to share the experience! :0)
Next step is to take the bag to the LV store for a TLC treatment which I'll be doing this week. I'm hoping to keep the hardware but replace all the vachetta since all four corners of the bag are splitting. The interior is in great shape as is the MC so I'm confident it will be 'approved' for a much needed face lift. I can't wait! I'll be sure to share the experience! :0)
How much did they quote you for replacing all the vachetta? Thanks!
Thanks for the kudos! Next step is to take the bag to the LV store for a TLC treatment which I'll be doing this week. I'm hoping to keep the hardware but replace all the vachetta since all four corners of the bag are splitting. The interior is in great shape as is the MC so I'm confident it will be 'approved' for a much needed face lift. I can't wait! I'll be sure to share the experience! :0)
It's been awhile since I've been to the LV 5th Ave. store but I must say I couldn't believe how poor the service was compared to the LV in Paris! SAs are more abrupt, in a hurry, etc. Though I'm sure those of you with great SA relationships may have a completely different experience at 5th Ave, I can assure you that both my random SA experiences in Paris were superb by comparison. They stay by your side, answer all questions, serve you champagne (or water) while you're waiting for your purchases and walk you to the door! Next time, I may try the SoHo store and see if I fair better!
Now for the good part-here's what I found out about my Alma rescue project:
So I've dropped off the bag and was told it will take 4-6 weeks for it to come back. Will I get the new version or the old? Stay tuned... :0)
Now for the good part-here's what I found out about my Alma rescue project:
- The repair is 3/4 the current retail price of the bag!
Since the bag retails for $1210, that brings my total to $907. Pretty steep! - Zipper tab replacement is free of charge.
So I've dropped off the bag and was told it will take 4-6 weeks for it to come back. Will I get the new version or the old? Stay tuned... :0)
Now for the good part-here's what I found out about my Alma rescue project:
- The repair is 3/4 the current retail price of the bag!
- Zipper tab replacement is free of charge.
Thanks for sharing your updates! I have a vintage speedy I have thought of doing the same for so it's great to hear. Is replacing the hardware included in the 3/4 cost or are you keeping the hardware?
That's a good question: I would think it's included in the price but I'll be able to confirm once I get the bag back. I did forget to mention that they quoted $125 to replace the zipper for the Alma which I decided not to do since it's still in great condition.
BTW, if you are thinking about doing this, be sure to do so before August as I understand LV will be implementing a price increase that month. I say save every penny you can!
That's a good question: I would think it's included in the price but I'll be able to confirm once I get the bag back. I did forget to mention that they quoted $125 to replace the zipper for the Alma which I decided not to do since it's still in great condition.
BTW, if you are thinking about doing this, be sure to do so before August as I understand LV will be implementing a price increase that month. I say save every penny you can!
Wow thank goodness your zipper was in good shape! Thanks for all the great info! Can't wait to see the finished product!
As long as your canvas is not cracked and you haven't had anyone else work on the bag (as far as you know) LV WILL work on it.
I just turned my Neverfull over to measure the length of the base (because I am looking at Hermes bags and need to compare sizes to what I am used to) and I discovered a crack in the vinyl--not on the base, but just before the main part of the bag joins the base. I never noticed this before because I never look at the bottom of the bag.
How does this happen? I've never gotten caught in the rain or anything. Will they do anything for me if I take this back to the LV shop where I purchased it? I've probably had it for two years.
I am so very sad.
