Well, I watched E-Bay for a year. Wasn't in a big hurry, also checked Craigslist and local thrift shops. I did notice the same thing with the prices going up in the last few minutes. I was bidding late at night and got mine for $250 with shipping. Machine and case in excellent condition, but didn't have any extra stuff and no manual (downloaded for free on Singer site). Only 1 extra foot and 2 bobbins. Good luck, it takes time to find what you want.