Opinions Please - Should I buy this??
#1
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Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: Perth, Western Australia
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Opinions Please - Should I buy this??
I don't think I am seeking enablers...but here goes...my budget is pretty tight but I am willing to part with the $60 they are asking for this machine if it is a worthwhile buy. So what do you reckon? Is this a featherweight or am I mistaken? Advice please.
#2
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Location: Outer Space
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It's a 99 and no, it's not a featherweight. It looks to be in nice condition, but missing the bobbin cover plate. I don't spend much on vintage machines, so I won't burst your bubble if you think it's worth it.
#3
Like Candace said, it's not a FW but a 99k. I wouldn't buy it for $60. Featherweights can be picked up easily in one hand and have 221k or 222k where this one has 99k (bottom of the pillar).
#4
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Location: Perth, Western Australia
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Thanks Candace and Mike....Here in Perth, vintage is very, very pricey....especially treadles, which I am very keen on (I have one already). I have never seen a Featherweight but have read about them with interest, thought if I came across one I would buy, but we have 4 machines already, so number 5 needs to be pretty special before I increase the numbers. I still have a lot to learn in the sewing machine department (handquilter to begin with), so I really appreciate your help. I shall save my pennies
#5
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Incidentally there have been a load of machines on eBay that I've wanted except they were in Perth and local pick up only, as well as a big lot of Aust Home Journals just last week. I find some of the best bargains at collectables markets (bazaars), garage sales (rare) and estate auctions. For real bargains in op shops (thrift stores for our US friends), I go to the country: There is no op(portunity) in the city shops these days.
Treadles are always pick up only, but I've passed loads of them up here. A treadled 201 went yesterday for $41 on eBay! Lovely cabinet too, which you can put anything else into, except a VS2 (pre-1892).
I'm selling my 221k featherweight ATM (Gumtree ad 1027253748). PM me if you want mine. The price is negotiable, if you know what I mean, and they are always worth more than $300 in good condition.
If you want a really special machine, you need a 222k. Saw one go for $750 a few weeks ago on eBay: Had to pick my jaw off the floor.
#8
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IMHO the 99 is a real nice machine to own - it is heavy so it won't waltz off your table. It is easier to maintain than the FW. Some times the motor might be a bit more powerful. It is what I gave my DGD. simple machine is good
Last edited by miriam; 10-03-2013 at 04:59 AM.
#9
#10
Okay, I'll chuck in my Aussie 2c worth too ... I've got a featherweight and a 99K. They are both in the most beautiful condition and I would say that the 99 has a better straight stitch (by the finest lint fibre) but the Featherweight is stupendously adorable. Have you considered buying a 201?
I just bought my 99K for $60 and it is absolutely pristine, in a gorgeous bentwood case with knee control... and Mike's most recent 201 he got for $10 (which is ridiculous) but you should be able to get a really nice one for $60 if you wait, even in WA. I think he's right that you won't get a featherweight for less than $250. Maybe $200 if you're really really lucky. I say that because I got my 222K for $300 (ish) and they usually go for a lot more... so the 'finds' are out there
Hope this helps a little!
I just bought my 99K for $60 and it is absolutely pristine, in a gorgeous bentwood case with knee control... and Mike's most recent 201 he got for $10 (which is ridiculous) but you should be able to get a really nice one for $60 if you wait, even in WA. I think he's right that you won't get a featherweight for less than $250. Maybe $200 if you're really really lucky. I say that because I got my 222K for $300 (ish) and they usually go for a lot more... so the 'finds' are out there
Hope this helps a little!
Last edited by frudemoo; 10-03-2013 at 05:05 AM.
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