I have a wonderful Crosby Mark IV close contact saddle I bought used about 3 years ago. I love it and it fits my horse very well. Unfortunately, it has developed cracks along the seams of the seat. I took it to my local tack shop and they told me to continue to clean it and oil on a regular basis so I can still use. They told me that eventually I would have to have the seat replaced and that it would cost around $600 - I only paid $400 to buy it in the first place. I want to keep it since I love it so much and it fits my horse. My question is how do I find a reputable tack repair shop? Or would it be better for me to find a new saddle altogether?

I would simultaneously ask around to local tack repair shops (and maybe ask friends/trainer if they know of a good one?) and look online or in consignment shops for the exact saddle used. That way you can leave both options open. I know how you feel about not wanting to buy a new one, though, once you break a saddle in and it fits you and your horse it becomes kind of priceless.