While I was recuperating from a surgery in 2005, I spent some time on eBay searching for a used lathe at a reasonable cost.  I lucked out when I found this Rockwell lathe for $500.

I have spent a lot of time tuning it up and making some tools to adapt it for my uses. The collet holder is a real favorite accessory and I use it whenever possible.

I found the mill at an Silicon Valley electronics firm when they were redesigning one of their buildings and it was to be scraped out as it was too much trouble to sell it for what it would bring. With some fast talk and pleading, I got this and several other items for myself and a couple co-workers for $350. Not a Bridgeport, but it has fit my needs and takes up less precious space in the shop.