I get what you're saying. I've been looking on and off for 3-4 years and this is the first 3-speed I've stumbled upon. It seems like a lot of money, but as you say--I might not find another one for a long long time.
I don't really know why I want one of these so badly, but something about the 3-speed Tourist Paramount really floats my boat. I don't even know how it will ride, but . . .