I took a MAchine quilting classs form Harriet Hardgrave about 15 yrs ago.

She said never get rid of this machine,it's a workhorse.
I have seen this machine go for over $1000.00 on ebay last yr.

As a matter of fact, I even bought the later 1990s version, the 1031, and they are virtually identical in stitch and function. I'm a major fan!
Don't sell yourself short![/quote]

I have the 1031, and she is WONDERFUL...I have finally retired her from 10 hour days, every day use...but she still goes to all of my craft shows so that I can do a bit of work between sales. The old Berninas are workhorses. LOVE that machine![/quote]

My first good machine was a 1031 that I bought in 1992, still have it and its been a great machine,I've sewn just about everything with it. I've had 4 Berninas through the years, I kept the 1031 and later got a used 930. My DD's first machine was an old 730. I gave it to her for her 16th birthday and she was so glad to have a machine that she didn't have to share. She used it for many years, sold it and now has a very nice 930. It'll sew just about anything she can put under the presser foot; she makes costumes.
Sharon W.

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I just picked up my Bernina 1010 from being serviced (first repair of it's life) The dealer said, you know that machine is worth at least $1000? My jaw dropped- I paid $800 for it 24 years ago!

Thank you all. i traded the machine for alot of new fabric and some other stuff.

I bought my 830 new.. I have sewn around the world on it sevearl times.. That machine has never skipped a beat.. It's a gem.. I'll keep it until the day I die!

Consider this: The Bernina 830 is such a well known, well recieved machine, one that has such a wonderful reputation that Bernina has come out with a new "830" version just last year.. The ONLY reason a company would do that is because they know the popularity of their old 830 and are hoping this new 830 will enjoy a sales boost from the reputation.. I'd hang on to that machine if I were you!!

I bought an 830 in 1975 for 575. Someone stole it in 1987. Found another in Midland Texas in 1998 for 475. Wouldn't trade it for anything. Bought a 1030 in 1987. It is the completely mechanical machine. It is like brand new. Would let go of it either. You can't find one to buy. Ebay just has some feet for them. If you sew at all I can't imagine you would let it go. They are so much better than the computerized machines.

I bought an 830 in 1975 for 575. Someone stole it in 1987. Found another in Midland Texas in 1998 for 475. Wouldn't trade it for anything. Bought a 1030 in 1987. It is the completely mechanical machine. It is like brand new. Would let go of it either. You can't find one to buy. Ebay just has some feet for them. If you sew at all I can't imagine you would let it go. They are so much better than the computerized machines.

the 830 model is very sought after ! they go from $300-$600 around here. (NW) keep it for a second machine, you will not find a better machine in the mechanical line. the feet, etc add more to the value.

If it were mine I wouldn"t sell it :D But a they are going for around 600.00 here . if you can find one that is . quilters seem to hang on to them like gold.