I would third the Bernina statements. Bernina still makes an all mechanical model (the 1008) that is tops in my book. Of course, you're lucky to get one for $799.00 nowadays.
A good alternate option? If you can thrift or craigslist and older, all metal, belt-driven, tabletop Kenmore, Singer, or Brother for uber cheap and the drop $100.00 to get it serviced and up to speed. Or just go to a mom-n-pop type sewing machine store (preferably on e that specializes in repairs), and just buy an older model from them. You should be able to get in under that $300.00 mark.