Singer Merritt 2016 - should I buy it?
#1
Singer Merritt 2016 - should I buy it?
I have opportunity to purchase this machine for $25.00. It has no attachments. It does have the electrical connectors and foot pedal. The wheel turns easily. No needle or sewing foot. It doesn't look too bad, dusty and a little dirty, but elbow grease will fix that up. Does anyone know anything about this machine. It's very heavy, at least 20-25 pounds. I've looked on internet but can't find anything regarding it. Thanks for reading.
#2
Super Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Outer Space
Posts: 9,319
It's not one of the reliable and collectible vintage Singers, so it's either a newer model and/or an older one from the 70's with plastic parts. How bad you do want to buy it? You'd not be out all that much, but if you want a reliable Singer the older, vintage machines can be had for about the same price if you scout around.
#4
how do you know which ones are "good to buy" and which are NOT good? Any way to tell about the dates they are made? just wondering, as I saw one the other day, good cabinet, from the mid 60's, according to the book that was in the drawer.
#5
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 15,506
look for all metal - plastic breaks
#6
Super Member
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Brady TX
Posts: 6,613
#8
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Posts: 311
When I go to look at a vintage sewing machine I carry 2 screwdrivers with me. Usually if the dials in the front ( width & length adjustments ) are plastic; the gears are plastic. I always unscrew the top of the machine and look at the gears. Many good Singers were made in the late 60's & 70's. These machines do not have any plastic parts in them. Believe it or not people don' mind you doing this. They usually look at these machines as ancient while not realizing what gems they have. I hope this helps.
#9
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: WI
Posts: 706
Run like crazy-the Merritt are a low end machine designed for Shopko/Pamida etc. We have had several as we restore machnes and nver had one that did not have a fatalistic problem. I would sooner see them fall off the back of a truck.
#10
Super Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Outer Space
Posts: 9,319
When I go to look at a vintage sewing machine I carry 2 screwdrivers with me. Usually if the dials in the front ( width & length adjustments ) are plastic; the gears are plastic. I always unscrew the top of the machine and look at the gears. Many good Singers were made in the late 60's & 70's. These machines do not have any plastic parts in them. Believe it or not people don' mind you doing this. They usually look at these machines as ancient while not realizing what gems they have. I hope this helps.
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