I agree that the Bays zip at £1500 is totally overpriced. It's also early days to know how long it will be around. I don't think you can go wrong making the Bayswater your first Mulberry. It's a gorgeous classic and easy to wear day bag. It comfortably fits over the shoulder, crook of the arm or can be carried by hand. I think you can dress it up or down & wouldn't say it looks particularly ladylike. It can look quite casual worn with jeans or leggings.
The Bays now coming in are at £1100 and think this will soon be the norm when all £895 have sold
I do think its worth it and would stick with new especially as it's your first bag but as already suggested go either go for a discounted,( Selfridges, Harrods or wait for the sale ) or one from the Outlet. Mo always kindly
updates Bicester stock here.
http://forum.purseblog.com/mulberry-shopping/post-outlet-finds-stock-here-no-chatter-775566-11.html and you can phone the other outlets.
It does seem rare now to see a fake Mulberry on EBay. It doesn't usually get past the authenticators and fakes are removed fairly quickly. You also have the backup of paypal & EBay if anything goes wrong.
My concern about EBay is more the state of the bag compared to the pictures. I have had good and bad experiences on EBay and mostly I have been disappointed
and then you are stuck with it unless horrendously " not as described"
At least buying from the Outlet or reputable store you can return it.
Good luck with your decision