I have a 1961 Singer 503a.....it is my dream machine! I had a Kenmore embroidery machine..In the 12 years I had it I never embroidered! I mean I did do a couple of initials but no way have I ever had $ to spend on those $$$$ cards it took. Plus it would NOT fmq. Then the computer started going wacky. Some days it would sew and others it wouldn't. That was a top of the line Kenmore when we bought it. Now it did sew LOTS of flannel diapers and some clothing. But 12 years only? I absolutely love the 503! It does all the fancy stitches I need and it does beautifully on fmq! I never have to worry about a computer going out on me either. I can service it and oil it myself. Its made good and will last me the rest of my life. So now if I can get a case for it and I ever need a machine to take to a class I will proudly take my 503a!