Why would I want a Singer Redeye? Just asking... are they special?
 

I have an opportunity to buy a portable Singer Redeye in a black case for $25. It has a motor and it does work. I don't have a lot of storage space, I already have a 301 in excellent condition and a newer computerized machine for fancy stuff. Is there anything special about the redeye, other than the decals are gorgeous? Please enlighten me. Thanks! I appreciate your input.

I bought a 66 redeye a few months ago. I was looking specifically for a 66 to fit into the restored cabinet of my g'grandmother. I, too, have about zilch for storage but since I'm definitely keeping the cabinet, well, why not have a usable machine in it! I had previously gotten a 99 in a cabinet that I'll now be getting rid of due to the lack of space. I wasn't wedded to the idea of a redeye - just the 66 so for me it was a pretty bonus. In your case, a portable doesn't take up too much room, so why not?

i'm with njquilter... i have the cabinet, so the machine isn't taking up extra space. i just like to own a piece of the past... it brings out many memories

mine is 101 yrs old, runs great! yep I would get it.

There are many reasons to buy that Redeye!

1. It's an American classic from the age when items were made to last.

2. It's a GREAT price.

3. One can never have too many back-ups -- you don't want to go into withdrawal when both the 301 and the new one is in the shop, right?

4. It sews a beautiful stitch.

5. It is easy to maintain yourself.

5. Eye candy. You'll smile every time you look at it.

I'd be on that deal in a heartbeat!

They aren't extremely sought after or valuable like some of the others but they certainly make a beautiful stitch and are stunning to look at especially if the decals are in nice shape. I've seen some with decals almost perfect and others not so much. For $25, you have beautiful art worthy of display, a piece of history, the gratification in rescuing it, an excellent straight-stitcher, and immense play value too. PLUS the other advantages Dorothy listed above!

himnherr,
Any chance you can show us a photo of the actual machine? The price sounds fair.

What are the chances you might ever consider the possibility of putting it into a treadle cabinet? I have a 92 year old Red Eye and being very honest, it sews a much nicer stitch than my $$$$ machine. I have two quilts currently being done on that machine. And happens her decals are almost pristine. Eye candy, productive and great conversation piece for those that come to visit :-)

For the price, if you get it and regret it, sell it.

best,
d

If it's just another sewing machine that will sit in its case, then no, I wouldn't buy it. It's easy to get into the mode of buying every vintage machine you find at a good price, and there are a lot of them out there. (Ask me how I know - I have way too many sitting in my garage right now and need to start making friends with craigslist.) If the decals are in really good shape that does add to its appeal (although if it's in a case all the time you won't be enjoying it), but Redeyes in poor or average shape are pretty common.

I like my RedEye because she's pretty, but I also like those older Singer machines because they are so reliable, easy to service, and have plenty of space under the "harp", which is something most modern machines do not have.

Since you already have two great machines that work, the determining factor really is space. A redeye in a black case is going to take up space, whether it is displayed or not. You have to weigh that against your anguish at passing up such a great opportunity.

One thing to keep in mind about the 66 is that it is heavy, which makes moving it around more problematic. Most likely wherever you put it in the house is where it's going to stay.