Variances in Coach Beekman handles---why?

[spirangle]

I'm in the market for a Coach briefcase/messenger and am giving the Beekman the most consideration. While searching, I'm noticing different handles, as pictured below. From a 'sturdiness' and 'aesthetic' standpoint, I'm much preferring the thicker handle.

I'm curious, though, to read from others in case they've got some thoughts/expertise as to whether the difference in handles points to authenticity, age, or origin. (I note some of the cases were made in the Dominican Republic.)

Looking forward to your replies!

Also, I found an advert posted here in the 'authenticate' thread that only shows the first handle:

 

[Hyacinth]

There are different manufacturing dates between those examples and Coach's catalog photo, and Coach CAN, and often DOES, change or update small details like that, it's not a problem. The different turnlocks in the photos you posted are perfect examples.

The important thing is whether or not something is authentic, not whether or not details like handle designs were changed. Without knowing if the examples you posted are even authentic, there's no valid way to compare them. Find one or two that have the handles you want and ask about them, including ALL the required information and photos, in the Authenticate This Coach thread.

 

[spirangle]

There are different manufacturing dates between those examples and Coach's catalog photo, and Coach CAN, and often DOES, change or update small details like that, it's not a problem. The different turnlocks in the photos you posted are perfect examples.

The important thing is whether or not something is authentic, not whether or not details like handle designs were changed. Without knowing if the examples you posted are even authentic, there's no valid way to compare them. Find one or two that have the handles you want and ask about them, including ALL the required information and photos, in the Authenticate This Coach thread.

Thanks for the reply! Will do.

 

[Lake Effect]

Thanks for the reply! Will do.

Then join us over in the Vintage thread under the Clubhouse sub forum. But Hy is right about authentication. I have seen Beekman fakes with regularity online.
My nephew has a Beekman and really likes it. I reconditioned one and when it was too heavy for me, sold it to a friend, who loves it.

 

[spirangle]

Then join us over in the Vintage thread under the Clubhouse sub forum. But Hy is right about authentication. I have seen Beekman fakes with regularity online.
My nephew has a Beekman and really likes it. I reconditioned one and when it was too heavy for me, sold it to a friend, who loves it.

Thanks for the reply! I did make it over to the 'authenticate' thread and Hyacinth deemed the one I was considering legit, so bought it. However, I still prefer what looks to me to be the more ergonomic, nicer finished handle, so may wind up selling the one I bought if it doesn't feel right.