Just picked up a white 534 with no instructions and dirty as a pig, with no statement as to whether or not it worked. I spent about an hour cleaning and oiling, threaded it according to the diagrams, with no idea on needles I tried a couple of standard sewing machine needles and went super slow at first. This was my first attempt at an older serger so I was amazed at how nice it worked once I got the tensions set up! Not sure if it is vintage or not but it sure ain't new. Now I will do a more thorough cleaning and oiling and leave it set up with darker thread. Smiles all around tonight!