There are so many machines from that time period. Try to find one that doesn't have plastic gears... It sounds like you are wanting something that does more than straight stitch. One with drop in disks will be easier to maintain and use than one with a camstack. Kenmore, anything European, White, Brother... tons and tons of Japanese machines - some better than others. Test drive before you buy see what feels good to you. Don't take our word for it. As a rule, the European machines are well made and a delight to sew with but complicated. Kenmore's some times run in reverse. Some of the Japanese machines have left home needle positions. Test. Test. Test.