Originally Posted by
ArchaicArcane
Yep. One of the case latches.
People cut them off when they can't find the key. It's better to just take it into a shop - a Singer store will have a key for sure, many of the other sewing shops will too, even a lock smith should be able to get it open. There's almost never a good reason to "permanently" damage a case to get it open. Yes, hinges and latches can be replaced but I don't think spares were always available.
Thank you. Now that you told me, I can see that. Just couldn't tell from the picture. I guess the description of "One latch on the case is missing, but the other works fine." isn't quite accurate -- not missing, just broken
http://raleigh.craigslist.org/atq/5316254383.html
Really kind of interesting how people will get into a case when the key isn't there. I have a 128-23 bentwood case that there are holes where the handle should attach to the bentwood case. It actually had a broken piece of what appeared to be the the original key in the lock. I also have a featherweight case with a missing latch. I was able to find a locksmith that had a bunch of little keys. I took a different FW case and we went through the keys. Actually found one that worked.
I also like the one that you posted at
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...ml#post7380770 I don't have a 15 with the plated stitch length plate. Neat that it is made in Canada, too.
Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.