This whole thing seems to be about an interpretation of a "fair price." I won't waste any time on Freddy, but will comment on what "fair price" means to me. I recently spent $200+ on eBay for a Sturmey Archer FM hub. Too much? Probably, but my chances of finding another without eBay or someone on this list, is nil. I don't think many made it out to Colorado that weren't attached to a Schwinn cruiser. Pricing is relative, several new hubs (Hugi, King, etc) sell for more than what I paid for the SA and guess which one I'd hold more dear? People think nothing of spending thousands on a new bike, many of which won't survive to see the next five years, let alone the next 50 so I think classic/vintage bikes and their components are a relative bargain. If someone can make a living trading in them, then I say good on them, I'll know who to go to, or find their wares on eBay, if I can't find it on my own. Hell, I'm all grown up and it's my choice isn't it? No one is forcing me to pay more than I'm willing to.
I'm not a vendor in vintage bike stuff, I'm a consumer, but if I don't mind spending what I think something is worth to me, why should I worry about anyone selling using the same philosophy?
Cheers!
Don Ferris
Denver, CO