The last button holler I got is a chrome plated Greist. Came with the cams and the feed dog cover plate. I tried to make it work the other day and it wouldn't. Took it apart and it's all gummed up inside. There is some sort of grease like stuff on a lot of the parts.
I don't know if this is just old factory grease or something some body put in after the fact, but I've got to clean and properly lube it before I can test it.
Which brings up a point. Button hollers are fairly precision made mechanical tools. They need to be kept clean and oiled internally to work properly.
If yours is sluggish and uncooperative, take the shell off and check it. I'll bet a good cleaning and oiling will work wonders for it.
Joe