Well, I think Coach has changed their policy somewhat. I sent out a bag for repair last year and they were unable to repair so they gave me a credit to get a new bag.
Last month I sent out a different bag and they sent it back in the same condition and said they were unable to repair it. It takes a month for the bag to get back to you fyi, but they did send me a 40% coupon for not being able to repair it.
They will repair vintage bags- I would send it out and if they can't repair at least you get a 40% coupon...thats a win win situation.
In my experience it's taken about a month to find out if your bag is a lost cause or not. Sometimes it's 40% off, sometimes it is original retail value credit.
wow. thats legit! I only have two Coach bags; I usually frequent L.A.M.B. and Louis Vuitton, I find it AMAZING that Coach has such great policies, however, L.V. makes the customer pay hundreds for repair.