Brand new Viking Model 21 from 1951 - Basement Find
 

Brand New, In the case. Shipped from manufacturer on 8/7/1951.,
Found in my mom's attic, never used and pristine.

What should I do with it. It's like a piece of art work...

Mint condition items are usually dusted off carefully and stored in a dry place. Even the case should be cleaned up and given a cover ;- )

It's a nice model, if its the one with the push button reverse, it probably needs diligent oil applications behind there, oil, push, test sew, turn knobs and push buttons, oil, test sew, repeat,... It can take days of effort given to get it to shift nicely again. It's not difficult, but a bit cumbersome and time consuming. If it's the version with stitch length lever it tends to be easier to get oil into every nook and cranny. I'm used to the 19 and 21, they turn up here now and then and usually clean up well. I have never seen any in nearly new unused condition like yours, it's rare.

I have never dared to take the bobbin case appart on these, I think it needs special tools and a bit of know how to do it; so only cleaning, vaccuuming compressed air and oil from accessable angles. It's a work horse of a machine, strong motor and sews quite fast compared to computerized models we have to day.

1951 is pretty early one for these, I think they were made from around that time to around 1960.

I wish there was a photo! I really hope you get some use out of it. Isn't it great there are people here who really know these old machines!?

what version is it. Model 21 came in A, C, E and maybe more. I have an A and a C. If yours is very early, it's probably an A.

If you have all the accessories, make sure you don't loose them. These came with a set of cams (I think 4) and they are very hard to come by. Having all the "stuff" can increase the value more than the condition of the machine, as often they got separated from the machine and are very hard to find. I think this machine will not zigzag without a cam inserted.

I've got both an A and C versions, and one of them is in near prestine condition. Paid $35 for that one, it had belonged to someone's grandmother and they ended up with it and just wanted cash. Got real lucky that time.

I sure would love to see a picture of it.

Wow, how neat is that. I'd love to see a photo also, congrats on your delightful find.

KEEP IT and USE IT. What a find. I wish my mother had such items in her attic or basement. LUCKY YOU.

I didn't even know they made Vikings way back then. It's a keeper.

What a find! If you plan to use it, you should take it to someone familiar with vintage machines, the grease in the motor will need to be replaced as it hardens with age and lack of use.