I'm surprised that it cost you that much but I'm not really up on the values. They do have a good reputation.
They typically sell for that price on eBay, and had I bought it on eBay, I would have additional shipping costs (about $250) and V.A.T (18%). But I found it locally and saved.
The SQ series were the first MIJ Squiers with MIJ pickups (82-83 JV's had MIA pu's). But mine came with an old 70's grey bottom which I like a lot so I'm happy, and that's a $200-250 upgrade...
You are right about the 3-saddle bridge. And I have never seen anyone complain about the 2-saddle early P bass bridges, or replacing them with slanted saddles.