that's what I hinted at how we should proceed, but he wanted to let auction complete. I never thought he would take my offer, and the fact that he is not only accepting it and good on his word so far and probably unknowingly accepting higher Ebay FV fees surprises me.
Another concern I had. I was thinking the seller would just get it bid up and then offer to 2nd highest bidder. At which point I would have left negative, but everything seems to be proceeding so far. I still can't understand why seller is willing to just take $300 less.
There is a previous statue feedback, so this eased my mind some, and I think in this thread or another one, JBinny asked them why no numbered edition on the base and seller said it was due to a returned item. I know all these things combined do look a little strange, but I have a feeling this seller will deliver the goods. And if not, my AmEx should cover me against any scam/fraud.
I think it's a good sign that immediately after I made the FULL payment, seller followed through with the partial refund of $301.
Several grey hulks went up immediately after this listing closed; people trying to ca$h in. If nothing else, I think this experience shows market value for grey is around 1100-1200.