Ladibug

I have a chance to buy a Singer SM. The best I can remember how it was described is it is a 202 from the 1920's and it sews the prettiest stitches of the Singers of that time period. It comes in a table or cabinet, has a wooden carrycase, and has all the accessories. The owner, who is in his 70's said it belonged to his Mother, who was a quilter. His asking price is $100.00 I get to see the machine next Tuesday. Is this a good deal? I kind of think it is but you ladies on here know way more about these things than I do so I need your help.

I have seen 2 other Singers both in either in 1. a cabinet/table for $300.00 and 2. a treadle for $350.00. These are way out of my price range.

Your help ladies is greatly appreciated.


Ladibug

pinkCastleDH

Well, maybe my input isn't really wanted since I'm not one of the ladies but... Never heard of a 202 and the 201 wasn't introduced until the 30's. Still, one of the domestic use Singers from that era should be nice. I don't think I've seen one with both the carrying case and cabinet.

Tashana

If the machine sews and does not have too much rust it's a steal. If there is a medallion on the back peak inside with a flashlight. If it does not have the medallion look underneath the machine. If those parts are very rusty the machine was probably kept in a damp place. Good luck. It is a good deal. (I posted the same reply in the main forum as well)

Ladibug

I did say best as I can remember. I am probably wrong and forgot all that was said.

nygal

I would buy it fast!

Caroline S

http://www.featherweightfanatics.com...ringDates.html

http://www.ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/serial-numbers/singer-sewing-machine-serial-number-database.html

The above links may help you identify the sewing machine.

As far as the price, well if you want it and can afford it, then buy it. After inspecting it closely, consider dickering a bit. To me, wiring is always the most important consideration. Almost every machine I have purchased from that era needs to be re-wired.

pinkCastleDH

I can just see it being a 101. Most of the machines of that era can still be made useful without the motor but it sounds like a 101 is just a pretty door stop (or, in our case, display piece) without it and that it *will* need to rewired unless it's already been done.

lovelyl

I have a 101 from 1929 and it runs like a dream. Never been rewired as far as I can tell. But with something that old it is best to get the wiring checked.

Wintersewer

I would never pay that much for any old black Singer, because they are very common where I live. They don't even sell for $25 on Craigslist. If it works and you like it, offer less.

jlm5419

Of all my vintage machines, the only ones I paid that much for was featherweights. A Singer 101should be much less. I got my 101 for 'free' because I bought the cabinet it was in, a model42.