Hi Mock,
The ML8 is a very well built lathe, but is also very dated by today's standards. I have owned one since about 1981 and it was quite old then, ex school, so probably had plenty of use. However it is still going strong and I very.much doubt that one of today's far East imports costing under £500 will still be going in say 50 year's time.
On the plus side, as I said, very well built (the basic lathe cost £335 plus VAT in 1985, no stand, no motor and no rear turning attachment) so that gives an idea. You can get accessories and spares on ebay, but not always cheap.
On the minus side the capacity is limited, 8" over the bed and 12" over the outboard tool rest. The head doesn't swing so you need different fittings for inboard (1" x 12) and outboard 7/8" x 12 left hand thread).
Personally I like the lathe but can't compare with modern imports as I haven't tried any. Having said that, I have now upgraded to a union graduate for bowls and a Viceroy for spindle work so will be selling on the Myford.
Regarding value, much depends on what is included. The original stand is nice to have and is probably worth around £100 on it's own. Faceplates go for around £20 each so you need to factor in such costs if there are bits missing - an ebay search will give you an idea of costs.
Don't forget you will need to fork out for turning tools, sharpening gear etc, whichever lathe you go for. Personally I think £190 is quite reasonable provided there are no bits missing. From the pictures it looks pretty well complete except for the rear turning attachment.
K
