For what ever reason these have not caught on like the FW or the Singer 301 - they are a good all around machine. They are easy to work on and you can get parts. Yes there are people trying to get a couple hundred for one - but then you can pick them up for $30 or $40 in fantastic shape - from what I've seen in the $15 range they probably need something worked on. Check the wires to make sure they are not cracked or exposed.