New! 1869 W&W #8
 

Just picked this up ... Wheeler & Wilson #8 from 1869. She's in wonderful condition!! Got a load of attachments with her as well, including 3 glass feet. Take a look at the weird bobbins - I stood one on end so you can see how thin they are. Quite big around though ... half dollar or larger.

Just one small problem ... I can't get it to pick up the bobbin thread. Not sure what I'm doing wrong. The bobbin sits in the disc, then I load the whole thing with the bobbin to the machine and the cover (disc) toward the bobbin door. The needle is inserted the correct way (groove is to the right). Any idea's??

Awesome Sue, what a score! My WW8 dates to 1878-1887. Charlee has one also.

Do you have a manual? I ordered my manual from Cindy at Stitches in Time.

Is the bobbin mounted in the bobbin case correctly? The needle groove does go to the right. Is it pushed up all the way into the needle socket?

http://www.ismacs.net/wheelerandwils...r-8-manual.pdf

Here's a manual courtesy of ISMACS if you don't already have one. MY1014 industrial needles work nicely.

Jon

I've got the manual - thanks. I finally did get it to pick up the bobbin thread, sewed two stitches and noticed the belt was slipping (probably compounded by my lack of treadling skills). I plucked it with my fingers to see how much "play" was in it and it snapped. Will deal with the belt tomorrow.

What an awesome, machine!!!!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations! on your new acquisition, DHMom!
Looks like you scored well with a machine in excellent condition.

Maybe the handwheel turns in the opposite direction. Most machines have the handwheel turning "towards" you but I've read about certain antique machines where the handwheel turns "away" from you.

Love you new baby. You will get it figured out and really enjoy it.

She's simply gorgeous!

Fantastic! I just bought the rusty version of this one....