Just got off the phone with the owner. Told me of the history, and yes he confirmed the 1200 hours are actual hours. The owner told me that he bought it from an old guy who got it new and used it as a little "piddle" tractor around his ranch. the current owner got it from the estate after he passed. Trading it in on a NEW one. We talked in length, he said he would tell me truth since he had no reason to lie to me, it was the dealer's tractor now. Guess I am going on a road trip later in the week, 4 hours one way, WOOF! Now to find a way to get it home if I buy it.
thanks for all the input. I will post pictures if I buy it if you all want me to.