Singer sewing machines are possibly the most popular sewing machines of all time. You can tell how old your Siger sewing machine is simply by determining its age or date of manufacture. First of all, you need to know where Singer’s sewing machines first started.
Who invented Singer sewing machines?
Singer sewing machines were the product of an American inventor and actor (I know, an actor!), Issac Singer. Issac Singer was accredited with making the first sewing machine where the needle oscillated up and down and was treadle powered in the 1850s. Machines before then were hand-cranked.
However, Singer incorporated another inventor, Walter Hunt’s lock stitch invention, as well as Elias Howe’s process that used thread from two sources, and the needle featured the eye near the tip. This led to patent litigation. Elias Howe won, leading to the first patent-pooling case where he earned royalties from anyone using his patent through licensing, making him very rich.
At first, sewing machines were industrial. However, in 1856, Singer domesticated sewing machines making them used widely. So, the oldest Singer sewing machines date back to this time, the 1850s.
Determining your Singer sewing machine’s age
Now that we have established that Singer sewing machines started in the 1850s. That means 1851 is the magical year. The best way to determine the age of a Singer sewing machine is by checking its model and serial number.
Model numbers for Singer sewing machines made before the 1900s are featured right underneath the Singer brand name on the front panel. It’s located close to the handwheel near the switch.
The serial number is on a panel on the back, front, or side of models. Previously, it was on the bed or underneath the sewing machine, just in case it was missing. The model and serial numbers crucially date sewing machines as records of all the serial numbers are maintained by the company.
However, this is not the case for machines produced between the years 1851 to 1870, as these records got lost. To narrow down your machine’s timeline, serial numbers issued before 1900 had no prefix letters preceding them. Afterward, till 1935, serial numbers had a preceding single letter after 1935, they had double letters.
Matching your Singer serial number
Singer company removed some of the information regarding models and serial numbers from its website, so it’s not possible to get clear and comprehensive information straight from them. Fortunately, a team of sewing enthusiasts, the International Sewing Machine Collector’s Society (ISMACS), has complied a comprehensive list at this link with a list of serial numbers from the 1870s to date. So, it is possible to determine what exact year a Singer sewing machine manufactured.
Antique, Vintage, or Retro?
Figuring out exactly how old your Singer sewing machine is, will help determine the value or the sewing machine’s worth in the current market. Note, however, that the older a sewing machine is doesn’t necessarily coincide with its value. Factors like the value, whether sentimental, historical, or nostalgic, as well as its condition, rareness, and popularity are equally important.
Many people fall in love with antiques and vintage sewing machines due to the simplicity of the technology. These models were and are still a favorite with sewing enthusiasts due to the stitches they could produce and how well they would perform while at it.
They operated with a simple, unique mechanism. The needle, bobbin, gearing, and embroidery cam technology in both hand-cranked and treadle versions was a beauty to watch and marvel at compared to the current complex computerized sewing machines.
Antique
Antique refers to sewing machines that are at least a hundred years old. Singer models like the Turtleback, Singer 15k model, and Singer 66k model, among others, fall under this category. They were considered pioneers, built to last, and some had production spanning decades! Sewing enthusiasts love them for their nostalgic feel and value.
Vintage
Vintage, on the other hand, refers to sewing machines that are at least forty years old. Singer sewing machines like the Singer 99k model and the Singer 201k fall here. The Singer 201k was so popular that one was a royal wedding gift to Queen Elizabeth!
Retro
Retro refers to Singer sewing machines that are at least twenty years old. Most used singer sewing machines currently fall under this category. Retro Singer sewing machines use technology as most of them are computerized with LCD screens.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I determine the value of my old Singer sewing machine?
First, you will need to determine the model. Using the model and serial number, find out the date of manufacture from the International Sewing Machine Collector’s Society (ISMACS) site. They have readily available information. Secondly, do online research on Etsy, Ruby Lane, eBay, Craigslist, Catawiki, or visit professional antique dealers. They will give you an idea of how much your antique or vintage sewing machine is worth.
Where can I get information on my old Singer sewing machine?
The best place to search about your Singer machine is directly on Singer’s website. The Singer sewing machine company is a famous brand and has an active platform where people interact and acquire information on various models. The International Sewing Machine Collector Society (ISMACS) is also a good resource center with links for additional information, such as the model and serial number for dating.
How can I fix my old Singer sewing machine?
Most sewing machines come with manuals. However, if you cannot access one, you can download a free one online. This will be even easier with a model number. These manuals not only show you how to use your machine, but how to troubleshoot problems as well when you have challenges with your sewing machine. The best part is the information is useful with just about any sewing machine.
Sewing is timeless
Old Singer sewing machines tell a unique story. They are pioneers of a great industry that revolutionized and commercialized sewing. As evidenced by the fact that they have stood the test of time, they are still in production. We need to appreciate these heirlooms by treasuring them and maintaining them for our coming generations to marvel
