Sometimes the sewing machine repair folks have used machines for sale. They can be really good bargins. My Kenmore that was purchased in 1999 pooped out on me this weekend. Sure was glad to have an OLD Necchi portable as a backup. The good news is, the part is ordered for the Kenmore and I'll be back to my favorite machine soon.
**What I like about the older machines is they don't have so much plastic inside.