We've paid more than $100 for multiple machines. We've since learned that we overpaid for a couple of them but that's learning - we'd happily do it again for some of them, though. And if, for example, I found a nice Willcox & Gibbs hand crank in good shape I'd fully expect to pay more than that. How much more I'd be willing/able to pay is another matter :)

Do you think maybe it's a featherweight 221? If so, jump on it quick, before he changes his mind. Otherwise, I'd make sure what the model is. $100 sounds kind of steep unless it's really something special, plus it will probably have to be rewired. I just bought one from the 50s and had to rewire it. Most of those wires are cracking/fraying, etc. and truly do need replacing.

I have a centennial machine that has both the Bentwood case and a table that the Bentwood case recesses into. All appear to have been sold together as a set. I don't know when they started doing that though.

Oh, now that sounds interesting! Do you have pictures of the setup? I'm wondering if there were ever treadle tops that cased machines fit into. Our Frister & Rossmans, the Seidel Naumann and both the Singer 48k and 28 have bases with slots or holes for a treadle belt to pass through. I'm thinking without some sort of recess in the top it would be difficult to get the base to stay in alignment. Here's how the slot looks on the 48k:

Yes Mimibug, he said it has to be rewired but he said that it is only the wire that goes from the machine to the motor on the outside as the cloth on the wire is frayed. I have been looking at the old Singers and I am sure there is more wiring than just that wire. I am thinking it is probably a 201. Not sure why I thought it was from the 20's but as I saidI did forget some of what was said. He said the wood case and the table it is in both came with it. I want to tank you all for all the info you have given me. I otherwise would know have went into this totally blind.

The two machines I found were on Craigslist. One was $300 and the other was $350. One was in a table and the other was a treadle.

Thanks for your help
 

I want to thank you all for your opinions and help as I would have went into this next Tuesday not knowing a thing to look for. This is one reason I love this site. You all are so nice and willing to help anyone. Thanks again ya'll. I am hoping it will be more than just an expensive doorstop...:D (that made me laugh even though it can be true...eek)

Ladibug

Yup, I blogged about it here.

My Winselmann also has a setup like you describe. I only have the portable base, but there are 2 holes in the base of it to accommodate a belt, and I've seen pictures on the internet of what the whole setup would have looked like when it was new. Gorgeous!

The portable base is also wedge shaped, smaller at the bottom than the top. I'm guessing that would have helped stabilize it.

i'm wondering if when he said "case" perhaps he meant the coffin top that sits on top of a machine that is in a cabinet to keep it clean. i've seen a few like that. if you can get the serial number you can find out what model it is. could you call him back and ask him for the serial number before you go see it, just so you have time to determine the model? or if it's one of the newer ones they have the model number right on it.

i guess what i'm thinking is that if it was me, i'd want an interval in between seeing it, figuring out what it is and actually buying it.

It could be also a 201-2, which has a motor in a little can on the back and no visible belt. You might go on ISMACS.com and look at the different machines to get a little head start. Parts are available for most of the Singers and you can go from there. Is there someone experienced in SMs that you can take with you. Consider slipping a SM needle, small spool of thread and bobbins in your pocket so you can "test drive" the machine. The price is reasonable at today's market prices, countrywide. If those things go with it, the price is fine. There may be attachments also that he forgot to mention. If the machine was used for quilting, ask about the quilting equipment. Chances like this don't come around very often. Again, if the lady quilted, it probably won't be junk. If it is a 222, WOW! Wish I could go with you.