Buyer Protection.... ?

Jason, STOP right now and click on to www.escrow.com. This is the only way to protect the buyer and the seller. They hold your money until the item is delivered. After you let them know you are satisfied, they pay the seller. The only problem is they charge a 3% fee. Maybe you and the seller can split it. Good luck from one who was burned!

If the seller in LA area,i would be happy to take a look the item this weekend !

If the price is too cheap you gotta be careful !!!

Some ideas:
Try to convince the seller to send it via cod. Perhaps you could offer to send the shipping costs up front so he will know you are a serious buyer.

Try to get as many phone numbers and addresses as possible. If he's a legitimate person he will understand your anxiety and be willing to assist.

An alternative would be to fly out there and get it yourself (since it is so expensive). If you pack it well (and it's in size/weight limits) you could ship it on the airplane. (warning: they WILL drop it from several feet up)(warning2: United Airlines is rough with luggage)

With no feedback on the seller you need to be very careful with such an expensive purchase.
1)Talk to the person on the phone.
2)Ask for proof of ownership. Ask where they bought it and speak with the person that sold it to them.
3)Get good digital photos of all sides of item showing the serial number
4)Call the police in the sellers city and ask if they have a history with this person.
5)Use an escrow service.
If they are legit, they will understand your concerns. Good luck