My first machine was a Bernina 730, bought in 1971. I sewed EVERYTHING on that machine (draperies, upholstery, quilts, clothing, yada, yada, yada). It was/is a super fantastic machine.
About 8 years ago, I was making a really complicated applique baby quilt and just got frustrated with having to stop, lift presser foot, move fabric one iota, drop presser foot, stitch, stop, lift presser foot, [repeat, repeat]. And pray the entire time that the fabric wouldn't move from under the needle!
Because I'd had such good experiences with my Bernina, I looked around for another one. I found a used 530 "Quilter's Edition" with the two features that saved my sanity: needle down and a knee-driven presser foot lifter. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE those features. I mean, I truly L-O-V-E them. :lol:
I was used to being able to finely adjust my stitch width and length; move my needle from side to side; and adjust the motor speed, so those were "old hat" But I also got these wonderful features: thread cutter, needle-threader, reversible pattern stitches, 'stitch to the end of the pattern and stop,' and a fabulous automatic buttonhole maker [not that I make buttonholes any more, but still...].
The only thing I wish I had? Bernina came out with their automatic stitch regulator for free-motion quilting about 2 years after I'd bought my new one. I've begged and begged, but they tell me my machine can't be retro-fitted with it. :evil:
I'll likely never buy another machine (much, much too much $$), but I would SURE love to have that stitch regulator......