I got my Viking Designer 1 in 2000. Used it lots back then but then I got another embroidery machine, Babylock Ellegante cause I wanted a larger hoop and got this machine at a steal. I now use my D1 for piecing so it gets lots of use again but I find after a number of moves its starting to show its age. The computer screen has shifted downward though it doesn't show it but I can't get to the area to adjust fabric and size stitch so it will need to go in for repair. I love this machine enough to spend the $$ to have the PC screen replaced. Its a workhorse in my book. It sewed over 8 layers of blue jean fabric without hesitation.
The Babylock is at least 9 years old and I do all my embroidery on it though have used it for buttonholes since I can't get the D1 to that screen.