It would be good to know who and where the sewing machines are made. I thought Juki's used to be made in japan along with brother - but that was years ago. I know viking used to be made in sweden? and bernina in switzerland but now i know viking is made in china and i think some newer berninas might be made there also. I heard ( don't know if it is true) that there are only three factories where all sewing machines are made? It would be good to get some clarification about all sewing machine manufacturers in order to make a buying decision. It seems like old sewing machines all had a bigger and higher harp space and were mostly all metal parts. One thing for sure - sewing when you include machines and cost of materials ( especially high end machines and feet) it is not a cheap hobby.
sigh . . . . still my favorite thing to do though.