TGood

Could you help me identify this machine? I think it is similiar to a Centenntial 201 but the light is in the back instead of the front. Thanks so much! You guys sure know your stuff!!

Charlee

It's a model 99...nice one, is it yours?

TGood

No, I am thinking about buying for a sewing circle for the church. Would this be a good option? I don't think this one has reverse. Would that be a problem? The idea is to have machines that are basic and that we can service ourselves. This seller has two sewing machines that she used for decoration only. The other one I think is a 185J. I think it is a good possiblities. She is offering both for $100.

Briarberry

I have both of those machines and they do have reverse. They are both good machines, I use both of them regularly. Good luck if you decide to get them. I know I would snap them up.

Charlee

The 99 doesn't have a reverse, the 185 does. Importance would depend on what kind of sewing you're doing at the church....quilt tops don't need to be back stitched, clothing seams do.

If it's BOTH machines for $100? I'd get em both....

Briarberry

Hi Charlee,
I own a 99K and it does do a reverse stitch, when you say it doesn't have a reverse what exactly do you mean? I am fairly new to vintage machines so I'm a bit confused. I am learning but there is so much information out there that I am just trying to figure it all out. Thanks.

quiltbuddy

I've never seen a Singer 99 that doesn't do reverse but as far as making clothes go you do not really need reverse. I studied couture sewing and we were never allowed to reverse stitch to secure a seam. You had to turn the seam around to lock the stitching....precise and no puckers.

J Miller

Briarberry, quiltbuddy,

Look close at the 99 in the pic above. See the round chrome nob just above the badge, that is the stitch length control nob. Ne reverse or back tack feature.

Now, look below at the pic of my 99K. See the stitch control lever. All the way up ^ is reverse or back tack, down is stitch length control.
The machine above is the original type and pre-dates the back tack or reverse features.

I'm with Charlee, for that price grab 'em both.

Joe

Charlee

That's interesting! Thanks for sharing that... I seldom back tack anyway, but was taught to by my mother. I don't do it much because I'm lazy!

Charlee

Oh...and my 99 is a 1924 model, and has no reverse.