The saying, "They don't build them like they used to" applies to Singer and Featherweights. The machining of the parts, the casting of the head, the precision of the gears,etc. That is one of the main reasons for owning older Singers from the 30's and 40's. Additionally they quit making those models so of course they are in demand for their quality. I cannot comment on any other manufacturer as I have owned my Singers for 50 plus years.