The leather is lambskin so naturally it isn't going to be the most durable. My SA showed me a beige that they had in stock (only one they had at the time) and it had been a display bag and it was pretty dirty for just being touched by customers. I love the beige but after seeing that, I wouldn't buy it in that color. I do think they need to be babied to a degree, especially a lighter color, but I'm kind of used to doing that so I don't feel it is that big a deal. I'd be most concerned about taking it out in rain.
The bag is considered a classic, but it is not part of the timeless collection according to my SA. However, the bag is premenant so it will be around. It was not included in the most recent increase. The prices are $1795 for the large and $1595 for the smaller one. The small one has quilting on it and leather on the top of the handle. The larger one has the classic chain and it does not have any quilting.