I have two 600's and one 600E. One of the 600's is my first machine and still works well. I got the 600E as a spare part machine, but wound up fixing it up. It's a cheaper model than the 600, judging from the quality of the iron castings, but the structure/parts are the same. My first 600 was purchased in '64 for a bit over $300 -- a month's salary. The last two cost me a total of $40, plus had to get a new foot pedal -- these can be rebuilt. I've read a ton about the touch and toss bunk, have no reason to believe it on these models. If the machine's been cared for it will be a good buy. It's really not hard to look at the machine and see if it's had decent maintenance. Nor is it hard to keep it maintained. Hope you get it and enjoy it!