I think the current price on that auction is too much for a brick top that is anything but "showroom condition". The picture posted looks like a good runner, but not a show piece.
I do, however, like your thought of buying a mower that will last far beyond what a Craftsman or Home Depot cheapie will last. I own four Lawn-Boys myself, and enjoy them all. I have a '87, a '95, a '96, and a '99. I'm currently working on getting the '96 running good. It's a 10523 Gold model, with a 5 hp F engine, 3 speed transmission, alloy deck, the works. I paid $27 for it not running. After a carb clean and new coil, it runs good, but not perfect yet. Still messing with it.
Where in North Carolina are you?