I have a Necchi machine that I bought in 1963 and it's still going strong. It has been shipped all over the world and fell from the crate at one point and we still could have it repaired. I keep thinking that I would love to get a new machine with all the new decorative stitches, BUT----this machine has been thru every move and all the kids and it is a work horse. I have sewed leather with it and jeans, just used the proper needles and it was great. In 1963 it cost $350 and has decorative stitches and 1/4th seam measurement with the pressure foot. I can't justify getting rid of it, so I just keep sewing!!!!!!!!!!