I have 2 monarchs and one south bend. They are incredibly handy for fabricating something up right away. I can cost justify in my business because a lot of parts are not available and a lot of machining is required on the engine parts. Go for an old american manufacturer. They are cheaper usually a few thousand. Parts are still available for the older lathes. Usually they can hold tighter tolerances (not atlas or smithy). Or if you can cost justify go for a new Jet.

Matt De Maria
Owner/Technician
Stuttgart Performance Engineering
Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA