I don't own one, but at one time was considering it. So here is what I learned. The first edition was the Emerald City Limited Edition (ECLE). This has the wood apron and direct printed decals (which supposedly look amazing). However, this series along with the early standards all had the original light boards that had some issues with failing. There are some Emerald City Editions out there, which sound like standard Editions with added powder coated armor. Never really understood that model exactly, but pretty sure they have original boards. The only way to be sure you have the new 2.0 boards is to get a used one that has them replaced (demand to see picture of the boards and look for the "2.0" on it) or get a Ruby Red Edition (new or used). These are still under production and have all the bells and whistles (at a price). If you go with the Standard Edition, you should be safe for any model 2017 and on...but again, I'd get a confirmed picture of the light boards to be safe. There are a lot of ECLE and early Standard owners who have never had light board issues, but that is an expensive replacement, in my opinion. If I were still in the market for one, I'd go either new/used 2017 standard or new/used Ruby Red. As far as the wear in areas, I'll leave that up to the owners. Hope that helps. Plus, as always, make sure you play this game before you buy. It's a lot to spend and not love it. I liked it...but never loved it.

The only model I would avoid are those with the original 5v boards unless some or all have been replaced. The original 5v games should have exhibited the issue by now. Around September of 2013 JJP switched to 7.5v unbuffered light boards. These games are far more reliable then the originals and many owners, including myself have not had any issues (knock on direct printed cabinet, lol). JJP then switched to 7.5v buffered light boards and ultimately to the 2.0 light board system.

Personally I think WOZ ECLE is the the most beautiful and feature loaded model.

Yea, the ELCE is the best looking as far as cabinet. I have the 5V original and some of the small lights went out and I had to replace 2 of the larger boards when I got it and have had zero issues with the 5v buffered boards since then. But, I got it for well under the price of a new RR, even with the boards replaced i'm ahead so it's a wash IMO. You can always get that 2.0 upgrade kit if you really like the look of the ELCE. I considered it but ultimately am moving mine because the family wants Dialed In.

Others nailed the light board stuff so I won't repeat. (my .02, I'd prefer 2.0 boards, but I love the look of the ECLE..)

Regarding wear around the state fair balloon (and also in the tree pops) early run ECLE and Standards did not have factory mylar placed there (they do now), many people dial the power down a bit on those coils as well, so high traffic games showed some wear there. If you end up with a used game, check that there is mylar in those pops, if it isnt, add it.

Good question,because I'm also interested in this game. Hopefully,I'll get a chance to play one at the Pinfest,this coming weekend. I would also like to try Dialed In too while I'm there.