Jack if it's an Atlas Clausing then that could be a good deal if it's one of the Atlas Craftsman lathes depending on it's size it might be OK, the 9 and 12 were pretty decent, if it's one of the 6 inch lathes, I think I'd opt for one of the Chinese 7 x 10 or 12 . Chances are it's pretty worn out, a fresh coat of paint has sold a lot of them that are good for parts.