I got a Singer sewing machine in a cabinet this week from the thrift store. I am having trouble dating it. The numbers I found on it on the bottom were MD158625 and also Singer 173821. The model number is 237. The cabinet is in fairly good condition but the machine is missing some things I think. I was wondering if anyone could date this for me from these numbers or if I should look for more numbers. I can't seem to match these up on the site to date the machine. Thanks for your help. I didn't have my camera charged to take a picture.

from what i read on the site, it was born in Monza Italy beginning 1934. some folks have contacted singer directly for further clarification http://www.singerco.com/contact-us congrats on your new to you machine

thanks for answering. I too, thought maybe it was in the 30's from looking at the site but I finally got through on their telephone line and the lady said by the model number it was from 1968-1972. I thought from looking at the machine that it may be from the 60"s-70's. I got it for $11 so couldn't pass it up. It appeared to be working but after getting it home and looking it over, it seems to be missing the holder for the thread on top and maybe something else too.

Good luck with ur new toy!

I believe the confusion may be related to there being two model 237's. The older Model 237 was from the 30's and then there was the 237 Fashion Mate from 68-72.

I had one of the 'newer' ones that I bought as a college graduation present to myself. I mounted it in an old Singer treadle cabinet. Great machine. Looks like this.
http://blog.sew-classic.com/2010/02/...ne-reveiw.aspx

thanks for that link. now i will be able to see what is missing. the light was loose so wasn't sure how that went on.