I have 2 vintage Singers. I wouldn't consider them antique as they aren't over 100 years old.
The first is a Singer Model 66 made in 1930. I love this machine. The stitches are perfect and it just hums. Yes, the age of the machine and the looks does appeal to me, but you can't beat it for straight stitching such as piecing. I bought it in a cabinet from Craigslist for $35.00. The cabinet needs some refurbishing and I had to replace the bobbin tire ($2.00) and the light bulb ($2-3). Otherwise it works perfectly, even though it was made before they had reverse.
I also have a model 201 made in 1937. I have not used this much. I picked up this machine in the cabinet for $40.00. There is nothing wrong with it except it was filthy. When I opened the bobbin case it was packed with lint. I have cleaned it up and oiled it pretty good. When sewing at a fast speed it makes a squeeking noise, but I was told that it just needed more oil.
You can't beat the straight stitch of the older machines. Once they started making zig zags, you no longer have the perfect straight stitch.
Besides they are so beautiful!
This is just my opinion! I would love to get my hands on a featherweight!!! :) :) :)