When I was well and working I bought the Designer SE. No way could I ever make that kind of purchase now so I'm glad I got it while I wasn't sick. Prior to that I had the Designer 1 which I traded in for the Designer SE. I got 100% of what I paid for the Designer 1 since it was less than a year since I purchased it. Viking gives you full trade up value for 1 year after you purchase a machine. Years before that I had the Viking Lily 555 and sold that to my friend and I used that money towards my Designer 1. I have loved them all. I always have been curious about the Bernina machines. I did test one out prior to buying my first Viking which was greater than 10 years ago. I liked them both, but ended up going with the Viking. I still would like to have a Bernina too one day if I hit the lotto :)