I got the Bernette H70 a couple of months ago on ebay for $100.00!!! They said it was used but when I got it, all the accessories were still in the original unopened bags and everything looks brand new on the machine. I got it to take to the quilt shop. But my Janome had to go in for its yearly physical so I have been using the Bernette. And I have been really impressed. It has a lot of great features and a beautiful stitch! It is noisy compared to my other machines. As far as their longevity, I dont have a clue. I read one ladies review that had hers for over a year so far and she is still loving hers.