The one thing I like about the Featherweight is their make up and durability. I have one that I have used for about 5 years and I do all my piecing and some of my FMQ on it. I have used it at least 5 times a week and they remind me of the Energizer battery bunny. It just keeps on going and going and going. I rarely if ever have a problem with it and if I do it is soooo easy to repair. My DH has been able to the maintenance and repair work (i.e. tension, belts, etc.)
I wouldn't part with mine for $300. The most expensive one I have ever seen sell on e-Bay sold for $1,200. It was Valentines day two years ago (I think) I couldn't believe it. Another thing these little machines have going for them is their weight. They are so easy to take to classes and quilt guilds. If you can pick up a 10 lb bag of sugar, you have almost the same weight as a Featherweight. Thus the name.