What makes a FW so highly sought after and ...
 

more expensive than the other vintage machines?

Is it because it is better built, or more for its collector's value?

Good question. I don't know but I'll be glad to hear the responses.

In my personal opinion...it's so small, and light weight. It sews the most perfect straight line. And it's very quiet!

Kat

And it is so cute! Also, it is simple to maintain.

They are light weight, so very portable, take up very little storage space, easy to take care of - even if you are not mechanical in mind, you can work this machine with a book or internet. You do not need formal training to use the machine, it is amazingly well built. But prices do get rather crazy because you have supply and demand and people get greedy. When I started quilting more seriously and wanted one to take to classes and various other events, I kept finding them in excess of $500.00 which was just crazy for me. So bought a little Europro for those things and kept my eyes open. The featherweights were made for so long they are not rare, and finally ended up with three (gave one to my sister) one at $300.00 the other 2 were under $200.00. In San Diego county I didn't really think I was going to find anything too much lower. But I love to look - just don't need to buy. Not sure why - but I can't help myself.

Yes, the cute factor makes it so irresistable!:p

Besides that they are "collectible", they do sew a nice straight line, and they are small and lightweight making them easy to take to classes and groups easily.

I like the portablility. Lightweight. and all of the above. I have two of them. One has the bobbin winder broke off but I can wind spare bobbins on other one when I plan on taking them out to a sewing get together.

For me, three things. They are super simple, when I just want to sew I can turn it on and go... No programming. I can maintain it myself for just a few dollars/year in oil and grease and the odd small part. Last, it's super portable. It only takes a couple minutes to pack it up and go, and with the case in a tote bag I can carry it over my shoulder.

It's portable, quiet, beautiful stitch, easy to maintain, and just plain cute.