Why Are Used Technics 1200/1210 MK2 Still So Expensive Compared to GR/GR2?

@larsman ,  I bought mine in 2018 from Adirondack Audio up near Lake George in NY.  I am using a Shure V15 type 4 cartridge with the top Jico stylus and I am thrilled beyond thrilled.  I have 2 other cartridges as well.  Been thinking about one of the Umami's, but presently we are battling my wife's medical problems.  The blood thinner she is on costs $400 a month through our insurance so I am not spending much on audio at the moment.  I also use a HRS record weight, the lighter version.

@stereo5 - Those V15 carts have sure been around for a long time - I think I had a type 2 somewhere in the 70's. Now the only type 2 I have is diabetes! 

Lake George is so beautiful - I was last there around 60 years ago but still remember it well.

Very best wishes to your wife - I hope she recovers quickly and completely. 

Technics still makes and sells the SL1200 MK7.

https://us.technics.com/products/direct-drive-turntable-system-sl-1200mk7?_pos=2&_fid=653cb3f8f&_ss=c&variant=42863149482219

Sometimes, just sometimes, you get lucky and stumble upon a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Like today. In my city: a 1200SL Mk2, from the first owner, in absolutely perfect condition.
 

In 2016 I was lucky enough to acquire an SL1200GAE, they were hard to get.  I set it up next to my fully KAB modded SL1200MkII.  It was better, but it was not a night and day difference.  Subtle improvements.