I love the Damier and have mostly this pattern...but I think when you speak of classic to the max...it is the Mono...
I have so many friends that say...."why did you buy that granny looking pattern again...and not the delicious Mono!" I think that it is iconic pattern for sure....
I also think that Epi is a class act as well....
i feel the same way you do. i'm fairly new as well, and wanted my first 2 pieces in mc. i did get one handled & one shoulder bag. now, i'm ready to explore....