I don't think the year matters as far as actual sewing is concerned. There are small differences according to the year and knowledgeable featherweight owners can often tell at a glance approximately when a machine was made. The scroll faceplate was used prior to 1951 (the Centennial model, considered by many as "more collectible"). Later models in the 1950's often had the feed dog cover plate marked with the seam allowances which is a nice feature for stitching. There are differences in cases and accessory trays too. Older cases had leather handles and larger full sized trays while later models had smaller side attachment trays and some were even red! The placement of the light switches also varied as the years went by and the gold decals painted on the bed of the machine also changed. These small details make Featherweights unique.