Originally Posted by KathyKat
My local machine shop has a Vikimg Sapphire 850 on clrerance for $1299. I can also get an intergrated sewing platform for half off for $600. So my total cost would be $1899 plus tax. .
$1299 is an okay price for this machine. What is the integrated sewing platform???
More important than price is whether your dealer services the machine and gives classes on it. Do they service the machines there, or send them to Viking corporate? The Sapphires are computerized, and while they can sew beautifully it's well worth it to have a dealer you can rely on when the going gets tough.
I'd rather spend more and buy from a good dealer than get a good price and find I have no support. You might want to check other machines, too, testing them with your own fabric - for piecing and for machine quilting.
Janet