I still have my first machine, my Featherweight. I bought it used from the Singer dealer for $200, in 1959. The selling point...? No matter how many years you keep this one, it will always be worth what you are paying now as a trade-in. That selling point convinced hubby that it was a good deal , and we could barely afford to make the payments, but I got it. Was that salesman physic or what???LOL Bought a brand new Kenmore in the early 70's,was in 7th heaven with it, all those pretty stitches!! Just gave it away last year to a young mother who couldn'T afford to buy one, and I had my Memory Craft that is 20 years old, so I didn't think I needed two. Well, I thought I did, hubby didn't ! But it was my choice, so now I am thinking I'd sure like a new one with all the bells and whistles , would love the newer ones that let you download embroidery designs. But guess what? I still hang onto and use that Featherweight!!