I think finding one of these might be mine

http://www.ipdb.org/machine.cgi?gid=2106

Ultimate machine? NO .... I would have to give that title to the machine I should have never sold CV. However, I'd place TFTC above TAF, POTC, RFM, TZ and a lot of other machines people think highly of. I don't think the machine gets the respect it should because who manufactured it. If you changed only the name on the apron to B/W , Stern etc. everyone would be searching for it.
My .02

It is interesting you say that about TFTC as I found a really nice one locally to me that I am mulling over (I sold a few of my games and, accordingly, might be able to swing it). May I ask what would be a good price for an excellent condition TFTC (cabinet and playfield) that has the knocker but no topper?

If you can "knock her" make sure you're "on top her" .. hehehe

Seriously though I'd go in at around $1200 imho.

My buddy picked a TFTC HUO up last year for $1800 Canadian, I think thats kind of high but his is a really good example, near mint shape. Ultimate... No, but definately in my top 10.

there's one in CA for $999

losangeles.craigslist.org link

Hmmm. Well, the guy in my area is mulling over $1000 plus my Japanese Skill Shot token based slot machine for his TFTC. If he agrees it would be nice...

As for the one in L.A., if the cab, DMD, and playfield are in good shape that would be a nice deal especially since it has the door handle knocker.

Always...

By the way Brokedad, Lol! 8-)

Well, my "deal" on a TZ for $2300 fell through (shucks!), thus I still have the TFTC offer. The seller has dropped their price to $1000 and it is in good condition (cabinet great & playfield very good) yet I have one concern. It seems like the seller has had trouble lining up buyers for this title, which is not a surprise given its darker theme. I am a bit worried that it might be hard to sell later if I do indeed come across a better priced TZ. Is this a valid concern or, given the fact that I can get this nice TFTC for $1000, I should be able to move it later?

Thanks for the tips, all!