I really have no answer for you there Geno... it's all about profit anymore so I'm sure the less they handle it the more profit they make...
I have absolutely no problem spending $200 on a quality skillet... whether it's new or 100+ years old... look at some of the higher end cookware and you can easily spend more then that...
I would suggest watching garage sales, second hand stores, flea markets etc... there are some bargains to be found... just make sure it sits flat and is not cracked... eBay of course has a ton but you have to know what you're buying and what it's worth...
