I am fairly new to this board and I just came across this thread. I actually learned to sew on my mother's 401A. She got it new when she was 15 years old. She taught herself to sew on it. When I got married 26 years ago, she found a used one in v good condition and bought it for me. I now have 5 machines if I include overlocks and quilting machine, but still use my old 401. I have had several dealers want me to trade when I bought new machines. Why would anyone get rid of such a great machine? I did not know until I discovered this board that I had a "vintage" machine! Now I appreciate it even more.