Just-Lee

I have come across 3- 15's and 1- 66, but I am not sure which is best for what!! Please help :)
#1 Model 66- AL955561 Made 2/14/1955 Good shape
#2 Model 15 AL350243 Made 4/8/1953 Good shape
#3 Model 15 AD917002 Made 6/4/1935 Good shape
#4 Model 15 AF346575 Made 12/17/1939 Good shape

They are taking offers, but are aware of eBay pricing, so we will see. All in good shape and been in storage for 30 years, never used a lot since new :) What would you pay?? I really have no idea where to begin here..

MTS

Check out the completed listings for the same models.
What was the final price range?
How does that compare to the asking price on these machines?

Also, check out each seller's previous auctions - was the same machines already listed and failed to sell?
What was the starting bid price or BIN?
Were there any accepted/rejected offers on the prior listings?

Feathers-N-Fur

Also watch Craigslist. I see both models all the time going for $50-$100. I was looking for a 201 and all I could find were the 66s and 15. I ended up getting a 31-15 for $285, love it.

Sewing Joe

I'd go for the 15 any day of the week. I love the vertical bobbin. The horizontal drop-in bobbin may be easier to load, but I don't think it sews as well. I NEVER have any problems with thread or tension on my Singer 15 machines (I have several sub version: 15-88, 15K90, 15-91). 66's are fine machines, I just much prefer a 15. One potential downside--the harp area on a 15 is slightly smaller than a 66, but it's never been enough of a difference to sway my opinion of which one is the better machine.

Just-Lee

Thanks for the replies! I have been without internet since my post...ugh! The deal with these machines...they have been in storage for over 30 years at a nursing home, but no one ever knew. Apparently, they threw out TONS of vintage fabric :( before the director knew about it. She was able to save the machines, as well as 2 large table looms, and is just trying to get money to go towards the employee Christmas fund. She really wants them to go to good homes, as she appreciates their history in general and the purpose they served years ago at the home...clothing repair and therapy!! If I can figure out how to post the pics in a reply, I will do so.

The main reason I want one, is because the older machines all had bigger throat areas, compared to basic machines of today, and the fact that I completely despise my new Viking!! :( I can trade up, with 100% of purchase towards a new one, but since I have been so discouraged with this one I hate to invest more money in another Viking machine. I am not one who will ever be fortunate enough to have several new machines or the extremely high dollar ones, so I need to love the one I have :)

MTS

Ah, so then you're not competing with others on eBay?
Is she listing them online somewhere? Or do you get first crack at them? That's good for you.

I would still check out the current market price range. Then you can take into account the machine condition/unknown working order/accessories(lack of?), etc.

Good luck to you!

And I'm sorry you're not in love with a machine you spent $$ to buy. That's got to be disappointing.

Just-Lee

[quote=MTS]
Yes, it has been very upsetting, to say the least! I have only been sewing, in general, for a few years now. I absolutely loved it, when I started with the Viking mechanical, but have been tempted to just quit while I am ahead because of this machine... If I end up with one of these machines, I can also add another $60-$80 I spent in gas to get to and from..lol

Annaquilts

I would take this one.
#2 Model 15 AL350243 Made 4/8/1953 Good shape. If you can't have tha tone I would consider the 66 because it is newer then the other 15s.
I like the 15 over the 66. It sews nicer. Also I would take the newer model. It is still all metal but you should have reverse.

Just-Lee

Thanks Anna! In 2 pics, of two of the machines, I notice a silver lever right above where the medallion is....Could this be the reverse lever or is the reverse a lever at all? If so, then there must be 2 machines with reverse...maybe one is the 66?? Here are the pics..

MTS

I WANT that 2machine table!!!!!