I paid almost that much for my first one, because I REALLY thought I had to have one! I was wrong. I never use them. They're nice machines, though, and I think a far better deal than a 201. I have two tan long beds I still need to sell, and a black short bed that's running sluggishly, but I'd like to keep it. I think $175 is a bit much for a dirty machine.

Miriam what a great link! Did you notice the first machine he had pictured is a Pfaff 30? Thank you for the link, fun and easy reading! I love the comments about the straight stitch only vintage machines! His explanation about the single hole bobbin plate makes perfect sense - given that some 'modern' machines have a single hole slide plate and a zig zag plate. The machines with the zig zag plate only tend to eat your fabric!

Nancy

Glenn, I may take you up on that, but for now I have other friends lookings for my friends in Alabama. I am worried. Thank you!

Nancy

Misty, you posted in the right place. There are several people on this board who own and love the 301 - me included, but I don't think anyone paid that much for their machines. People can ask anything they want, but the machines usually don't sell. I see them listed on our Craigslist sometimes for outrages prices, but again they don't sell. I have bought machines off of Craigslist after watching for a few weeks for 1/2 of what the original asking price was and even less than 1/2. If you really want a 301, make an offer! I love my 301 by the way, but like Miriam said there are lot of really nice vintage machines out there - sometimes you can get one for practically nothing or free! Have you tried Thrift stores, yard sales, estate sales, flea markets? I would not pay $175 for the machine, especially a dirty machine - offer less!Nancy

I also had to chuckle when I read the part about cams or no cams! I love using cams, but I guess not everyone would! I also liked the part about the Kenmore 158 machines! Everyone has their favorites! I love using my Rocketeer with cams and my 319w with cams! We could all write something similar with - I am sure - a different favorite machine! For Monica and me the Two Spools would be right up there - that is still the best piecing machine ever!

Was reading my blogs this morning and was in awwwww when I open this one up. Just thought some of you might like to look at this machine too.

http://www.tozzscorner.blogspot.com/...g-machine.html

You can click on the picture to make it bigger.

http://www.tozzscorner.blogspot.com/...g-machine.html
What is the metal thing on top of the machine for, my dh asked and I don't know. Seen them on lots of old machines but can't figure it out. Fill me in. Thanks

I've wondered about those things too.

That's the spindle, or for the spool of thread.

does that spindle turn to get the spool on there - with all the odd sized spools these days that could be a pain in the neck.