We have a Designer 1 at our quilt ministry at church. It is a wonderful machine and we were so fortunate to have someone donate it to us - but I completely understand about the bobbin. Ours does not wind so well either so it is just a pain. Anyway, we also received a Sidewinder as a donation so that has made winding the bobbins a breeze. Takes a couple seconds to get one wound. Wonderful little invention.
Best of luck with your decision.