Introducing my Favta Darling
Hello, new member here. I wanted to share with you one of my latest vintage machine acquisitions - a Favta Darling. She was made in Frauenfeld, Switzerland in the early 1950s. Similar in size and weight to a Featherweight, she looks a bit like an Elna. (see photos)
A little history: The Favta company was not profitable, although after World War II, Swiss manufacturers like Bernina provided machines to other European countries whose production had been affected by the war. The factory was relocated in hopes of finding a new market. After only a few years, however, production again generated too little sales. This can be explained by the lack of awareness of the sewing machines. Although they were of high quality, the Favta models were subject to competition: both Bernina and Elna enjoyed regional and international fame. In 1966, the company's management decided to close the production facility for good, and the Favta sewing machine was soon forgotten.
So this little "darling" popped up for sale locally last month. I didn't know what she was, but a little research showed me that she was quite rare. We drove 2 hours to get her, taking care to practice social distancing and wear masks. The daughter of the original owner said that her mother did not like sewing much, so the machine saw little use. It came in a cute little suitcase, with original manual, accessories, lots of feet, original needles, bobbin case, and unique little bobbins. The only thing it's missing is the extension table. Some day perhaps I'll find one.
I had not had time to check her over until today. All seemed well until I discovered that the belt is missing from the hand wheel!! So I've left her with my local sewing machine guy to see if he can source that and also check her over from end to end. I've read that the Darling is considered one part of the "Swiss Trio" - which would be the Darling, the Bernina 125, and the Elna #1 "Grasshopper." So I have two more machines to find in order to complete the trio.
Kathy Judge Blacklock
Amelia Island, Florida
My "collection"
Featherweights (2)
Necchi BU
Bernina 530 Record
Favta Darling
Last edited by kathyjbl; 08-25-2020 at 03:08 PM.
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