I have an 1880 Purdey bar-in-wood hammergun with original steel barrels that were nitro proved in the early 1900's. I have taken my share of upland birds with it and an occasional round of skeet. The gun has never never needed a single repair but I have prettied it somewhat. I'm sure it will continue to function flawlessly for many, many years.
Like Eightbore, I have owned my Purdey for nearly 50 years and the initial purchase did indeed hurt the pocket book. But, in hind sight it has given me may years of enjoyment.
[Linked Image from i.imgur.com]