When my husband and I were dating, he would always say "But you're worth it" so you can tell him that..see what his reaction is. Six years ago, I purchased a used "Bernina" for one fourth the cost, and I just love it. Some gals trade sewing machines for better features on the machine, not because the machine is so old. My Bernina dealer is only a 45 minute drive from my home, so I have had no problems with my sewing machine that he can't handle. Good luck shopping, it's a big decision, what that will impact you for many years.