the machines in my life began in 1964 with a top-of-the-line Kenmore, had it for years till about 2002, sold it in garage sale (great machine only one part on it broke and the man came to the house to fix it (25-year warranty); next was another Kenmore (Janome) first computerized (had it for 14 years) friend bought it when I retired from work and my DH outfitted my sewing room: Innov-is 4000D (upgraded to the 4500), and a brother Novelle 1500, and won the Project Runway Limited in 2009 (great little carry around machine)so my sewing machine affairs have been long-lasting and happy - so I guess my vote would be Kenmore/Janome and Brothers. :)