Most finished Ebay auctions are binding to both seller and buyer, not just buyer. I would dispute it on those grounds if you really wanted the machine. They had the option of ending the auction early or just canceling it.
http://www.azcentral.com/business/ar...nclick_check=1
"Most eBay auctions -- from antiques to fashion to video games -- are considered to be legally binding contracts, requiring quick payment from the buyer and safe delivery from the seller. Not so for vehicle auctions, which are non-binding and can be canceled by either the buyer or the seller." I bet I can find that in their rules too. This article was more "fun" though.
The cars are not binding, I would think that a sewing machine is.
ETA: I agree, eBay isn't worth the aggravation.