Originally Posted by
earthwalker
Here in Perth, vintage is very, very pricey....especially treadles, which I am very keen on (I have one already). I have never seen a Featherweight but have read about them with interest
Featherweights are very easy to discern from 99s. They're both small, but if you haven't seen a FW before it doesn't help to know that they're smaller. The featherweights have a hinged extension just left of the sewing area. Here's a picture of a 222k with the extension up (it folds up to go into the case):
[ATTACH=CONFIG]439473[/ATTACH]
Incidentally there have been a load of machines on eBay that I've wanted except they were in Perth and local pick up only, as well as a big lot of Aust Home Journals just last week. I find some of the best bargains at collectables markets (bazaars), garage sales (rare) and estate auctions. For real bargains in op shops (thrift stores for our US friends), I go to the country: There is no op(portunity) in the city shops these days.
Treadles are always pick up only, but I've passed loads of them up here. A
treadled 201 went yesterday for $41 on eBay! Lovely cabinet too, which you can put anything else into, except a VS2 (pre-1892).
I'm selling my 221k featherweight ATM (Gumtree ad
1027253748). PM me if you want mine. The price is negotiable, if you know what I mean, and they are always worth more than $300 in good condition.
If you want a
really special machine, you need a 222k. Saw one go for $750 a few weeks ago on eBay: Had to pick my jaw off the floor.