My Mom had a Bernina when she lived in Europe. Loved it so much she hauled it to the USA and used it with a converted for over 20 years. Then she upgraded to another Bernina and has the same one for over 30years. My first machine was a Bernina and I have upgraded 3 times to another Bernina. To this day they are mainly metal not plastic, the stitch quality wether you are striaght stitching or elaborate embroidery work is superior to anything on the market. Acessories are metal and there continues to be generous literature available to purchase for all types of techniques. Reliablity...both my mom and I have had our machines for years and we have each had a tuneup one time in about 20 years. That's why I stay with Bernina.