I have read that those with the crinkley finish were for the military.

Butt ugly isn't it............

I had to take a look at this one, I actually liked it. I wonder if the fabric glides across the bed of the machine as easily with the crinkle finish.

Lucky you!! I'd have the same idea about it, to be sure! :D

Yep, kind of hard to pass up that kind of $$$$$ and I already have and use (the key word) a featherweight. In in my DHs infamous words... "how many sewing machines does one person need!" Decisions, decisions!

The insane thing is that someone bought it. That plain black face plate doesn't do much for me. I do like my blackside 128.

Yes, I believe you may be on to something... all the 'insanity' in the world! But, I believe it's the uniqueness, or for a better description, 'rare' attributes of the crinkle featherweight model that makes it appealing to collectors? Possibly one reason there is not an over abundance of information available on the internet.

The prices I have seen are insane considering they are not for everyone's taste. I have just paid $300.00 for one (not crinkly finish) & have not seen it in person but the pics show that it is in Very Good condition including a case. I am expecting to receive it sometime this week from eBay.

Considering the black $6.45 centennial model that I have, and currently use, 'insanity' could be relavant? But my centennial model does have a few scratches in the paint, and no case. I'm still thinking it's the rarity of the item, and not the usefulness or cutenss? The godzilla featherweight is definitely 'butt ugly' in comparison to the shiny pretty featherweights.