It's another top end high tolerence reel, but worth the price tag? Sure, if you can afford it. Most of the people I know that have them don't use them in the surf though- mainly offshore spinning reels, and when you look to offshore tackle, 400-500$ is not a whole lot when you consider a tiaga, accurate, duel, albacore, or even international is going to cost anywhere from 500-3000$+ In perspective, the VS really isn't all that much.
I suppose you also have to consider the alternatives. What other large spinners are there, compared to the Penns, Mitchels, etc- yeah they are expensive. I would say- if you can afford it, then it's not overpriced. Hype is hype, but most likely its there for a reason.
They are a well built reel using billet AL, titanium, ss, and all the works. Sealed dual bearing drag, like capacity that would choke a donkey, etc. Might be a little overkill for stripers and other local fish, kind of like hunting squirrels with RPGs

, but like almost anything- if you take care of it, then it will last a while.
Now the 200$ VS pliers- I would call that a whole different story.
Tight lines and blue skies,
Salty