What is the oldest 201 you've ever seen?
 

Hi Gang,
Just wondering what's the earliest year of Singer 201 you've ever seen? Treadle?

Mine is a 1938/39 in great shape sews well!
Model 201 has a potted motor, no treadle.

Ethel

There is a 201 treadle and there is a 201 with a belted motor. I haven't seen either one - the two I own have potted motors.

I have a mid 40's one, don't remember exact date and too lazy to go look. It shows a bit of wear. I have two centennial ones, both in lovely condition. I would love to have a treadle 201, but I too have never seen one. How hard would it be to convert a potted 201 to treadle? Could for instance a 66 spoked balance wheel be retrofitted on there? Or....any other ways? I currently have 6 201's one that is a donor.
So far Ethel you're the winner!

They can be converted. They need a belt guard with a bobbin winder (I got mine from Mizkaki) and a deep wheel. I recently converted a Singer 15 to HC that way. Watch for a tutorial.

Mine is from May of 1940. It also has a potted motor and I have never seen one with a belted motor.
Didn't Mike report there are tons of belted ones in Australia and almost no pots?

Miriam, I will be anxiously awaiting that tute! I would love, love to convert one of my 201's!

My dream is to find a hand crank machine in nice condition. Not a converted though I would rather find one that was original. Do you know how I can find one from a trustworthy source? I really don't want to go the EBay route and I have never seen any in my area that I could inspect. On that note, what would be your favorite model of hand crank?
Sorry, not trying to hijack this thread....should I start a new thread with this topic?

http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...ml#post6660748
Tutorial as of right now...

I do not own an original HC - I, too can only wish. I have converted a 15, 128, 66, 99 & 27 - There are advantages to each. I think the one I go to is a Singer 15 from 1902 but the 27 is right up there with it - I think it is the heavier balance wheels that I love on those. The 128 and 99 are lighter weight and for sure cuter. The 66 is a redeye and very cool.