Used Pfaff Sewing Machine

[luvswool and dyestuff]

Have been thinking of getting a second machine for some sewing projects and saw a used vintage Pfaff Synchronatic Sewing Machine for around $200.  I remember Ruth and a few others who have these machines extolling their virtues.  Do you think the price seems about right?  I have just an inexpensive Janome at home and would like something with a few more bells and whistles.

What do you suggest?  

[MTRuth]

If you can get a Pfaff that is in good working order for $200 I would jump on the chance. I had an inexpensive Brother machine before I got my Pfaff and the difference in the way they sew is amazing. I'm not familiar with that particular model but it sounds like a good deal.

[halay]

Pfaff machines used to be the best, like a mercedes among cars.

[Pandagirl]

Cathy, do you know how old the machine is? The reason I ask is that my Viking died last year and when I went to have it fixed I found out they no longer made parts for it. It was 39 years old. I bought it used and used it for 20 years but had no idea it was that old when I bought it. So, I bought a pfaff specifically because it has the IDT system so the top and and bottom fabrics move together and don't slip. I haven't used it a lot but it is fun to have all the stitch options. Good luck!

[koffipot]

Ask if it the cam stack is in good order, these are expensive to replace - if you can even find the spares. Many of these older machines have nylon gears which deteriorate, becoming brittle and break.

Ask me how I know!!!

[Shepherdess]

Marilyn, I know there is a place online to get parts for just about any machine ever really old treadles. singer is the only one that still make parts for the old machines. or at least they did 10 years ago. they still make the old treadles. I found it when I was looking for parts for my White treadle. They have a tons of old machines and they cannibalize them for parts.

[luvswool and dyestuff]

Hmmm, good to hear the viewpoints on old machines. I knew Pfaff was among the best but didn’t realize just how impressive their quality is. I will do more research on the age and appreciate all of your suggestions. I have noticed that on sites like Ebay, old Singer machines are still very much in demand. As much as I would like a new machine, I just refuse to pay the thousands of dollars the top ones command.

[Pandagirl]

Ann, the two places I brought the machines contacted some of these places and the manufacturer. The problem was it was the first electronic model and the step motor was shot. So, I recycled the machine.

[Frances]

Sewing Machines - Such fond memories - I got my Betsy Ross Electric Machine probably around 1955-56 and made Doll Clothes on it. It still runs.

The Domestic was my Mom's (1948-49) and she made most all of my Clothes plus Dance Costumes using it. Then I learned tp properly sew on it.

It was in a pretty mahogany cabinet with drawers on one side which I now use as a desk in my Condo. I do miss having a built in machine - the top opened on the left and on the right to make a really large surface and I will never get use to a machine that sits on table it is so much easier when the machine sits down into the table.

I had a Brother at one time that died.  I have an inexpensive Singer portable now which is fine for the small amount of sewing i do.

I keep the machines sitting out in the Guest Room - two things I have not been able to part with yet.
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[koffipot]

I always had a cabinet machine, then when we downsized I kept the machine and got rid of the cabinet. Bad move, my old Bernina is quite heavy to lug around, so I bought a 2nd hand cabinet with machine lifter cheaply from E-bay. Brings the machine to a better working height and the little storage area is very useful.

Cathy, I'd certainly recommend you get a machine with metal working parts.

[luvswool and dyestuff]

Ahh, Frances, you touched deep into my memories with your pics of vintage sewing machines! For 8th grade graduation, I begged my parents to get me a used sewing machine, which was all we could afford at the time. I don’t remember what kind, but that machine started me on my sewing adventures. Later, when I was working and earning money, I bought myself a top-dog Kenmore in the cabinet. What a beauty! It lasted about 25 years and perhaps more had it received proper servicing.

Judith, what vintage of sewing machines would have metal working parts? Everything seems to be plastic today, which is why I enjoy buying vintage items.

[koffipot]

Sorry, I can't tell you which have what Cathy. I recently bought a 1970 Touch 'n' Sew" Singer 760 on ebay, for my daughter and couldn't get the required replacement nylon gears.

I've had my Bernina for 25 yrs and it's all metal. It's been a workhorse and is still going strong (she crosses her fingers) I clean and lubricate it only occasionally; it had its first service last year and was pronounced fit and well.

[Pandagirl]

I may be wrong but when I bought my Pfaff the sales person mentioned Bernina was all metal. since I just had back surgery I wanted something lighter.

[luvswool and dyestuff]

Ah, so that’s the trade-off--metal parts are heavier, plastic lighter but perhaps not lasting as long.

Great advertisement for Bernina, Judith--25 years performance and still working!

[luvswool and dyestuff]

Decided NOT to buy the used Pfaff, as it went on auction up to $400. Maybe that was still a good price, but I’ve decided to wait on a sewing machine purchase. Instead, I am putting in my first WOW order tomorrow!