Neat machine. I think one would almost have to go industrial to get the same quality in new machines as in the vintage ones we all like. I worked at one place with industrial machines and loved loved loved them--especially how fast they were. I just don't have the space for industrials now and don't really need them (as if that's prevented me from collecting domestics).
Here's an interesting article on the Singer 201, with the explanation about a machine in 1940 that cost as much as 27 weeks of wages at the time:
http://www.sewalot.com/singer_201k_sewalot.htm
The Sailrite company does currently produce portable heavy-duty walking-foot machines with a good reputation in the $600 to $800 price range.
I do find it interesting that so often we discuss here how great the vintage machines are and that they are superior to the modern machines, but anything over $50 is often considered "way too expensive." I try to find the best deals possible, but do think they're worth more than we frequently pay.
YMMV
John