Some old sewing machines can be worth a decent amount of money. How much an older sewing machine is worth depends on a few factors. Is it an antique, vintage, or just retrograde brand model? What condition is it in? What value does the sewing machine hold to the buyer?
These are just the basics. Determining the worth of your old sewing machine is based on today’s markets. To know the value of your old sewing machine, you need to know your machine’s specifics. To get the most money for your sewing machine, your marketing approach is also very important.
Sentimental, artistic and historical value
What value does the old sewing machine have to the potential buyer? Why do they want it? There are different types of worth a buyer will place on an old sewing machine and different reasons why they might hold the old sewing machine dear.
Perhaps it has sentimental value. An old sewing machine may be worth a lot more to a buyer who has a sentimental attachment to it. Perhaps the same model was once owned by a loved one, or they had a similar sewing machine when they were young. Nostalgia can escalate the value astronomically.
Antiques and vintage machines have such an attraction to them in terms of design. Many people think of them as decorative value as a pieces of art. Brands have unique designs to them, making them a collector’s dream. Antiques and vintage sewing machines have striking features that are uncommon in retro and current sewing machines. This makes them stand out and gives them a decorative value.
Antique and vintage machines will also have a historical value to collectors or buyers, as they are a part of history. Antiques, which are at least 100 years old, will tell a story of a different time. Even vintage machines that are at least 40 years old, will have their own stories to tell.
The sewing machine’s condition
A challenging aspect of working with old sewing machines, whether they’re antiques or vintage, is being able to easily use the sewing machine. Most old sewing machines are in poor condition or missing a crucial part or two. To find a well-maintained old sewing machine is a gem.
A still-functional older sewing machine moves its value to another level. Collectors or potential buyers seek old sewing machines for the experience they offer in terms of usability. Different brands and models, whether antique or vintage sewing machines, offer upgraded features that are up to date and considered highly valuable.
The condition of the old sewing machine is also affected by the availability of spare parts. The rarer a brand is, the less likely there will be spare parts available if the sewing machine is in poor condition and needs repair. A lack of readily-available repair parts will bring down the value.
Popular brands are worth more
Vintage sewing machines are artifacts of a past time periods. In the 1850s, major brands first came onto the scene in numbers. Some brands were famous and have stood the test of time. Brands such as Singer, Howe, Wheeler & Wilson, Willcox & Gibbs, and Chadwick & Jones are reputable sewing machines with antique models dating from at least the 19th century.
Currently, famous brands like Singer and models such as the Singer 201k are collector’s favorites. Therefore, even if your machine is a centenarian, other factors such as popularity and reputation come into play.
Vintage sewing machines can also be worth some money. Family-owned Bernia sewing machines boast of quality and are valued highly in the vintage criteria.
Where to sell your sewing machine
Where is the old sewing machines up for sale? There are generally two avenues for selling a second-hand sewing machine. First, you will need to determine the price of the sewing machine and think about where you can get the most value for the sewing machine, for instance, in an auction.
Good research is necessary to determine the value of the sewing machine. You can seek the services of a professional appraiser or an experienced antiques dealer to find the value of a similar sewing machine.
Conducting research and using sites like Etsy, Ruby Lane, and flea markets are a great start to source information.
For auctions, you will need to come up with a starting price. That is where research comes in handy. Online sites like eBay and Catawiki have seen antiques and vintage sewing machines selling well. The International Sewing Machine Collector’s Society (ISMACS) has information on auction results as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I date an old sewing machine?
You will need a brand model name and a serial number. The brand name is on the sewing machine. As for the model number, this is on the side of the bed. The serial number is on the base, side, or underneath the sewing machine, in most cases.
The International Sewing Machine Collector’s Society (ISMACS) has readily available information on brands and models on its website. They will give you an idea of when and who manufactured the sewing machine.
Can the age of a sewing machine determine value as well?
Yes, the age coupled with the condition can be crucial in knowing the sewing machine’s worth. Checking the model and the serial number of the sewing machine on the International Sewing Machine Collector’s Society (ISMACS) site will help you determine its age.
As for the condition, this generally refers to the general outlook of the sewing machine. Are original parts in good condition? While functionality is sometimes important, it’s not always necessary. Collectors are increasingly buying sewing machines for their aesthetic value.
How can I figure out the value of my old sewing machine?
Research is your friend here. First of all, the brand and model are a good starting place. This will tell you when the model was manufactured and by whom. Secondly, sewing site enthusiasts such as the International Sewing Machine Collector’s Society (ISMACS) have open forums where you can research and make inquiries to get an insight into what your sewing machine is worth.
Wrapping up
Knowing the value of an old sewing machine shouldn’t necessarily translate to planning on selling. Old sewing machines are antiques and vintage artifacts that will tell a story to generations to come if they are maintained well. They should be considered family heirlooms. It is interesting to know their value, as this way we will learn to appreciate them more.