The Mystery German Machine
 

SteveH said in another thread that he'd have a go at identifying my treadle, as it's a badged machine and I'd love to learn of its origins, age etc. There were no clues where I bought it. Please feel free to help him (me).
I start with these shots, but will take orders for any detail or angle that might help. I'll even take it outside for better light as this is the best I can do inside. I can provide more light, but only get glare.

a better clear view of the brass badge would help too. I'll do some looking today

Here you go

I would guess Haid & Neu was the manufacturer.
The brass "Mercury" badge was probably the importer

The key unique elements that need to be accounted for are:
Two spool pins (usually on imports)
Two spool pins placed FAR apart. (unique)
The extra metal on the lower 4/5th of the serial number plate (most were simple flattened ovals)

Here are two examples off the top.

Here the one that is called "Faudels" (made by Haid & Neu)
http://www.sewmuse.co.uk/german%20se...chines%202.htm

Another Haid & Neu that is similar
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/408420259931796485/

By Jove, I think you nailed it.
I always assumed the badge and the Universum brand were the importer's. I have actually seen the Faudel on Sewmuse, but didn't really latch on to it - not a very clear picture - my excuse. The Pinterest sample is spot on. You haven't seen the lid, and very little of the treadle, but they confirm your estimate.
Only thing that differs is that there is nothing in this gap on my sample, while there seems to be something on the Pinterest one. Could have been there and gone on mine , of course. I always wondered what that slot and the screw were for..?
And, would you say around turn of the century? I use to mumble "Ooh, my guess is 1890", sounds like I know what I'm talking about, and more "antique" than "1900".

The gap is where the take-up arm should be. That screw is the pivot for the take-up arm also.

Definately a needed component.

The fun part will be trying to ID the specific model and get a closer dating for it.

What a beautiful machine!

:) can't help, but that is one beautiful machine!!

[QUOTE=SteveH;7371676]The gap is where the take-up arm should be. That screw is the pivot for the take-up arm also.

Definately a needed component.[QUOTE]

Well, yes I can see the usefulness in that.

But if you look at your samples, and this one

http://www.needlebar.org/cm/displayi..._display_media

it looks like there is something sticking out from the gap.

that is the back end of the take up arm