Thomas Schick 12 Inch SME

Thomas Schick 12 inch tonearm. SME version as opposed to the SPU version so it will work with a variety of cartridges. I purchased this new, directly from Mr. Schick in 2009 for a custom turntable project that never came to fruition. Tonearm is new in it's original packaging and has NEVER BEEN USED OR MOUNTED!  Older Schick model with the brass base and counter weight. According to Mr. Schick, the polished brass version of this is no longer being manufactured. Comes with high quality wiring, RCA connections, arm lift, head shell and mounting hardware. Near mint condition. Only flaw I see is a small amount of tarnish near the bottom of the brass riser which would most likely disappear with a bit of brass polish otherwise it looks like it would be hidden inside the brass mount that attaches this piece to the turntable. I tried to show this in one of the pics but it's hard to see as it really is a very minor blemish. 9/10 rating because of this. Original shipping box is in only fair condition as it is bare cardboard and 8 years old. The wood box it came in is in good condition. Metal wood staples on bottom of box have rust. I cannot remember what the original price that I paid was. Mr. Schick does not have any price listings on his website so I contacted him to ask what he thought was the fair market value and he quoted me about 1000euros or 1200USD. Shipping will be by USPS Priority Mail. Unit is already well packed in its original boxes and will be placed in a well padded Priority Mail box for shipment.
This is a very high quality tonearm at a great price compared to other high end and vintage tonearms on the market. There are rave reviews here on Audiogon, Stereophile, and in several other audiophile publications. More info can be found on Thomas Schick's website: Thomas-Schick.com