1951 Model 15
 

I just bought a 1951 model 15 in a gorgeous cabinet. A motor was added in the 80s. The decals are all in excellent shape, as it the entire head. I paid $75 for her. Was that too much or a good deal? She really sews a beautiful stitch and my other short shank will fit her. The lady also has a 500 rocketeer for sale. It's cabinet is blonde wood and the cams, as well as the top cover are missing. She is asking $100 for it, but I could probably get it for $75 as well. What do you think? Good deal or not?

Sounds like a good deal. The 500 in good shape and cams is worth 75.00. You can easily resell for 125-150 on ebay if it is nice. The 15 is great for FMQ, and the 500 is nice for the stitches and the joy of sewing with it.

I would be happy to pay that price for either one of those. Congratulations. Let us know if you go back to get the 500!

I wouldn't pay that much for a 500 with missing top. I wouldn't pay that for a 15 either. LOL, but I'm frugal:>

my friend bought a 401 today for $75 in a cabinet, both in very good shape. i have a 503a Rocketeer that i absolutely love - it's been my only machine since 1989 (til now when i've fallen in love with all of these black beauties!) and i've never had a single problem with it. i oil and lube it and i have made tons of clothes and at least a dozen quilts on it. i love that machine.

however, missing a top . . . i'd make sure i could get a replacement part on ebay before i bought it - or i'd dicker her down to about $25. while it doesn't serve an official function, other than keeping dust out, to me, it's a significant part of the appearance. i have seen the tops on ebay, so look and you may get lucky.

I am soooo happy with my little 15. Now that I've figured out that it threads from right to left, it works beautifully. It only took me 2 hours to decide that I might need to read the manual! DUH! I am working on my DGD's quilt and love my new old machine!