vista - just read your post, but since i full heartedly advocate lanvin flats, i have to comment.
i
LIVE in lanvin flats and have since a year and half. i used to wear heels all the time (and still do occasionally), but as soon as i bought my first pair - black leather, i was in love! they are the most comfortable shoes ever and they really suit my style. if you love flats too - you must get a pair.
as far as wear and tear - i have quite a few pairs

all purchased s/s 06 and f/w 06.
leather (black and silver/gold)
patent (turquoise, brown and black)
satin (yellow, red, green and violet)
and they are all in great shape. i did not even need to buy any for the s/s 07 season. i did put zipsoles on all of them and i did replace the heel of the zipsole this season - but i am in NYC a lot and walk a lot, so i give them a lot of wear. the yellow satin pair were really dirty, but i washed them and they look brand new.
the only pair that do not look great are the silver/gold as the metallic has worn off the leather. they don't look horrible - as they have a very lived in look, but in terms of wear and tear, they are the worst. otherwise the leather and patent get better with time.
i just received an email from satine and they have the best colors for fall....
pink patent, red patent, olive leather, brown/red leather, navy patent....the list goes on and on....
i hope this helps, but if you are thinking of getting a pair - do so. it will be $ well spent.