Treadle Offer
 

I have an opportunity to buy a Singer treadle machine in a very nice cabinet from 1904. Any idea what it might be worth?

Here you go. http://www.ismacs.net/sewing_machine...ine_worth.html

It varies widely depending upon model, condition, location, and how badly you want it. I'm in upstate NY and they are fairly common but priced higher than in other areas. Is it for eye candy or actual use? Only truly rare machines have any hope of investment potential. Can you post a picture and serial number? Would this be your first treadle?

I've seen them vary in price. I have 3 treadles and I paid $40 each for 2 and $50 for the third one. 2 of them are in excellent condition and the third (which I paid the $50) needs some work. It's a coffin top and the coffin top is in rough shape. Mine are a late 1800 Singer, an early 1900 singer, and an early 1900 New Home (the coffin top). They really are worth what you are willing to pay for them. There is one in town here that I went to look at - she wanted $150 and both the cabinet and machine looked horrible. I saw one on craigslist that was free to whoever could pick it up by a certain day (missed that one, darn it!). If you're patient, you can usually get a good deal on them. Like one of the guys I bought mine from said, they made thousands of those machines.

Whatever they are asking, haggle.

$150 range is what I recall seeing at an antique shop last summer in northern Minnesota. I'm not positive they were Singers. Good luck!

I find exactly the opposite, they are cheap in Upstate NY. We do find them priced high here, but they don't sell. I have bought many for $20-$50. Last summer I bought a really beautiful one for $50, and probably could have gotten it for less. The seller had tried to sell in her garage sale, but...no sale. She just wanted to be rid of it. I have seen treadles on CL for years @ $85...no sale.

Thanks for all the great information. I was thinking $1000 for an antique so I'm really glad you set me straight :-)

I would think under a 100 unless in like new condition with manual and extras.

Maggie,
Lots of people think all antiques are valuable....unfortunately...or fortunately that is not true. I am trying to sell a Singer 403 right now for $125, fully serviced and outfitted with way more than it came with, including 14 cams and a walking foot....NOTHING!! There is another one for sale on CL, dirty with nothing "Reduced to $340."!!!!! Hahaha....what a joke.