Yeah, I'd have to say that EBay sellers are notorious for being unresponsive and inflexible. Seems like you found a seller that IS flexible and responsive. I think that their offer was reasonable. Not quite sure that i would have replied any different...
One "could" assume that the seller is being deceptive, but then why offer a solution that is under your control?
Also, remember that a LOT of folks do not think of these machines as tools but as hallway and shelf decorations and what we call wear,tear, and neglect they call "patina" and it is a plus.....