Unfortunately, high demand and low supply have driven these beauties sky high, especially at the auctions, but now private parties are cashing in, too. This machine does appear to be in very good shape, has a lot of accessories including it's beautiful red case. It is certainly worth it, but I agree, it should be lower, maybe $450. Anyone else fortunate enough to find one for less than that has been VERY lucky.
I own two Berninas, and old 730 Record that I paid $350 for back in 1994, and a newer 1090 that I got for a song from a friend a year ago. I too, have a million miles on the 730, and have had only two small issues with it in all this time. Wish my body ran that well!
They are all such strong performers, and will run forever as long as they are dearly loved and maintained regularly by a Bernina certified technician. I belong to a Yahoo Group called the Bernina Thirty Somethings. This is one excellent group with an awesome amount of knowledge and experience with a variety of Berninas. They have a lot of info on file and pictures galore as well as some of the friendliest folks I've ever met.
Thanks for the info, always nice to know our quilting board members are looking out for us.