Well, I decided against pursuing this further, though I read a lot on Singer 66 and 99 models - so more knowledge for me!! When I came across this - I was looking for a 201. I decided to stick with my original plan. Also, I decided that I would so much rather find something that I can go and see, and that if I am patient, the right machine will come along at the right price. But it was an enjoyable read this afternoon - and now I have an idea what the 66/99 look like (as compared to the 201-301 and 15-91), so will be better prepared in the future.

Check out this blog entry:

http://vssmb.blogspot.com/2011/07/vi...ingers_30.html

This is an awesome blog for anyone interested in vintage machines.

Thanks for the link! Wonderful reading, very helpful info to help in identifying different models. :)

Looks like a 66 to me, too. An early one.

Doesn't matter if it is a 66 or a 201 - they don't make them like that anymore... It will sew just about anything

A 201 has a light on the front of the machine. That is a 66.

Almost sorry I let the seller know I was going to pass. Probably good I get my feet wet with the lovely15-91 I just acquired. Going to arrange a service call for her for a check up and to verify what will need replacing and how soon (wire-wise). There is someone in my area that services these machines (and others). They do housecalls, so I don't have to figure out how to get it out of the cabinet. I will be watching everything he does and asking lots of questions! :o Then I will feel more confident in the future with cleaning and doing a bit more on my own machines.

i used a 201 for my job in a yarn shop for years in the early 60's... the stitch regulator should be a lever that slides up and down... it's a super machine....

This is a 66. I have one and LOVE it... but mine is a treadle. These machines do not have a "reverse", just so you know. All they do is stitch forward-- beautifully.

It's not a 201 as I have one. I think sewbizgirl is correct and it is a 66. Just for your information, there are four slight variations of the 201. The 201-2 has the light at the front, a potted motor and is more common in the US while the 201-3 has a belt driven motor and the light at the back and is usually found in Canada.