Mickey2

SU #62 is the free arm model in the SU series produced from 1971-78 (according to needlebar.org). There are a few plastic gears in there, but it's a tough machine that still can be fixed up if there's anything wrong with it. The plastic gears in the SU series are usually fine even after a lot use and 40 years of age. I think the #62 was the top model with 6 built in stitches and the Elnagraph additionally. Since your friend's come with the Elna Stretch leaflet there's a good chance the most sought after stitch patterns (cams) are among the accessories (a lot of small black plastic disks). Used machines like these are most valuable to the owner who appreciates it. I bought my Supermatic for $35 dollar, it's an older model than the SU, I have seen them go for up to $170. When in nice condition, and it comes with lots of accessories and disks for the Elnagraph (cam mechanism) will make the price go up. The disks in themselves can fetch quite high prices, around $10 a piece. That said, they aren't always easy to sell, at least not top price. The double cams and stretch stitch patterns are the most sought after, and there aren't that many for sale at any given time. The machine and cams are good though, very much up to the requirements of a basic machine in 2015. Price vary a lot from seller to seller, I don't think I would have payed more than bargain price since I already have a couple of machines. You would need to pay quite a lot to get a similar quality new machine, $500 and upwards at least. The closest model in production today might be Bernina 1008, and it only has a few extra stitch patterns, nothing like the Elnagraph. Todays computerized machines have lots more auto features, but the nice ones usually cost quite a bit. I think the SU series are all belt driven, and quieter than the Supermatic. It has automatic buttonholes and lots of fancy stitches. It's a regular lock stitch machine, but the Elnagraph is capable of back stitches and it gives a range of handy stitchpatterns with a form of over lock. Only a few models had at the time. It's a very nice machine that deserves to go to someone who cares for it and know what it is.