I think it looks real but it is older. I suspect they have had that bat sitting around for an age!!
It's very much an older profile and as Tim said, the stickers are older!!
It looks as though its been in a time capsule for 15 years and is now unleashed!
I guess it all boils down to three issues......
1. Does it feel ok to your mate? Weight, pickup, feel?
2. Does it respond well?
3. Is he happy with the price?
It may turn out to be an absolute rocket! Although I'm not sure I'd be happy with the price paid for an older bat!
I don't know about you Pete, but I have certainly seen these, and played against people with these! Many around in the late 90s.
The reason those are monsters are;
1. None of this 'low density willow' rubbish - This was best looking, best performing NOT biggest.
2. Pressed for durability, as well as performance - Why would you not? Returns mean money!
3. None of that CNC technology! All by hand, eye and some bloke with a fag and a flat cap... and probably a whippet p*ssing on the cleft...
My only worry is the age of the bat. Probably been sitting around somewhere for 15 years - drying out.
Make sure it is completely oiled and knocked in properly before use and hope the handle glue is still upto it!