Chanel Caviar Medallion Tote Bag

Q: What are the key features of this Chanel Caviar Medallion Tote?
A: This vintage tote is crafted in red quilted caviar leather with gold-tone hardware. It has dual rolled top handles, a top zip with signature medallion charm, a rear slip pocket, and a red leather-lined interior with one zipped pocket and one slip pocket. This piece was made in France.

Q: What are the measurements and how does it carry day to day?
A: Approximate measurements are 29 × 24 × 14 cm with a handle drop of about 17 cm. It is a structured, medium tote that stands on its base and keeps its shape well. The drop works well in hand or in the crook of the arm and may fit on the shoulder for some users depending on build and clothing.

Q: What typically fits inside?
A: Daily essentials such as a long wallet, smartphone, keys, sunglasses case, a small cosmetics pouch, and a compact notebook or small tablet fit comfortably. Capacity varies with organisers and pouches—refer to the Measurements above for exact sizing when planning your carry.

Q: Does it fit a laptop or A4 documents?
A: It generally does not accommodate most 13-inch laptops, and A4 documents may need to be angled and can be restricted by the zip opening. Slim tablets up to around 11 inches can fit more comfortably depending on their cases.

Q: Is the Medallion Tote discontinued?
A: Yes. The Medallion Tote was produced in the early 2000s and was discontinued around 2013, making current pieces vintage on the resale market.

Q: Was the Medallion Tote made in multiple sizes?
A: No. The Medallion Tote was produced in one size only, typically measuring around 12.5 × 10 × 6 inches with a handle drop around 6.5 inches (approximately 32 × 25 × 15 cm and 16–17 cm drop). Minor variations occur due to measurement methods and leather structure.

Q: What is caviar leather and how durable is it?
A: Chanel’s caviar leather is a grained calfskin known for its pebbled texture and excellent resistance to surface scratches. It is considered hard-wearing and well suited to regular use while still requiring mindful care.

Q: How should I care for this bag?
A: Avoid overfilling, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and contact with moisture or colour-transferring fabrics. If the leather gets damp, blot gently with a soft, non-pilling cloth and allow it to air dry. Store the bag upright in a breathable dust bag, lightly padded to maintain shape, and clean with a soft dry cloth only. For deeper cleaning or colour touch-ups, consult a professional handbag care service.

Q: How do you authenticate this vintage Chanel, especially if the serial sticker is worn?
A: Chanel bags from the Medallion Tote era feature 7- or 8‑digit hologram serial stickers and an authenticity card; wear over time can render a sticker partially illegible. At A Retro Tale, each piece is verified through multi-point checks of materials, stitching, quilting alignment, hardware, stamps and construction details, not the sticker alone. We stand behind the authenticity of every item we sell.

Q: What is included with this item?
A: Everything included with the purchase is listed under the product information section on this page. If a dust bag, box or card is not listed there, it is not included—contact us if you would like us to confirm what is present.