The desire to craft one’s own garments and accessories has been a part of human history since ancient times. Though the invention of the sewing machine has made it much easier to sew fabric, many people still enjoy collecting vintage machines.
A Singer 1919 sewing machine is an iconic example of vintage craftsmanship and ingenuity. These machines were some of the earliest sewing machines to feature the now-standard needle with a presser foot, which made stitching fabric much easier than with a treadle machine, the type most people used before the invention of the electric-driven machine.
The most common model of the Singer 1919 are the black-encased wooden models with the logo of a Singer 1917 on the front. Though these models have been reissued in limited numbers, many vintage models remain available from antique dealers and on auction sites like eBay.
As with all antiques, the value of a vintage Singer can vary widely depending on its condition. A fully-functional, best-in-class 1919 model can easily command several thousand dollars, while a basic model in original condition fetches far less. The most recent values for a best-in-class machine are around $2,500 USD, while basic models can fetch anywhere between $100 and $250.
Enthusiasts of antique sewing machines point out that even though basic models of the Singer 1919 are relatively affordable compared to their fully-functioning best-in-class brethren, they still offer a unique and attractive way to get into this niche hobby. With a little patience and know-how, it’s possible to purchase an antique Singer 1919 for as little as $100 and restore it to its original condition.
Even if the machine does not have a perfect condition, it can still be used for basic fabric stichery. This can be done without undergoing a full restoration, although it is advisable to get the machine professionally serviced for both safety and performance reasons.
One of the first steps in purchasing a vintage Singer 1919 is to have it appraised. This is important because it will give you an idea of the value of the machine and any repairs it may need.
The value of a vintage Singer 1919 also depends on any accessories or parts that may come with the machine. Accessories such as bobbins, needles, spool pins, thread stands and other parts all contribute to the overall value of the machine, and can sometimes double or even triple the value of the machine.
What to Look For
When examining an antique Singer 1919, it’s important to look for signs of wear and tear, as well as any missing parts that may affect the performance of the machine. It’s also important to note the condition of the machine’s casing, as this can help determine the value of the machine.
Another factor to consider is whether or not the machine is complete. The more complete the machine is, the more valuable it is likely to be. This includes any and all accessories and parts, as well as the original manuals, accessories and metalwork.
If the machine is in working condition and complete, then it is likely to be more valuable. However, if the machine is in poor condition, then the price is likely to be lower, regardless of completeness. Therefore, it’s important to have the machine appraised by a professional who can give you an accurate assessment of its value.
Age Matters
Aside from condition, the age of the Singer can be another factor in determining the machine’s value. Generally speaking, the older the machine is, the more valuable it is likely to be. However, this does not necessarily mean that the oldest machines are the most valuable. It depends on the condition of the machine and how complete it is.
As with any collectible item, the rarer the machine is, the more valuable it is likely to be. Many parts of the Singer 1919, such as the needles, bobbins and thread pins, are easily obtainable and thus, not particularly valuable.
However, parts like the original motor, which has been discontinued, can be much more expensive and thus, increase the overall value of the machine. Therefore, it’s important to research the machine to determine what parts and accessories that come with it in order to get an accurate assessment of the machine’s value.
Preserving its Value
When dealing with any vintage item, it’s important to remember that if it is not properly preserved, it can quickly become damaged or unusable. Therefore, it’s important to take steps to ensure that the machine is as well-preserved as possible.
This includes properly storing the machine in a clean and dry environment, as well as regularly servicing the machine to ensure it remains functional. It is also important to note that the parts of the machine should be regularly inspected and replaced when necessary.
The condition of the machine is also important when it comes to preserving the value of the machine. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the machine is free of dust and debris and that all parts are in working order.
It is also important to remember that certain parts of the Singer, such as the motor, should never be taken apart or tampered with, as this can cause irreparable damage to the machine. Therefore, it is advisable to take the machine to a professional who is experienced in working with vintage sewing machines.
Maintaining the Value
Proper maintenance is critical to preserving the value of the Singer 1919. As mentioned above, it is important to regularly service the machine and inspect it for any damage or missing parts.
It is also important to use the proper oils and lubricants on the machine, as many parts of the machine, such as gears and screws, require specific oils and lubricants in order to function properly and accurately. Therefore, proper maintenance is essential for preserving the machine’s value.
In addition to proper maintenance, it is also important to take steps to ensure that the machine is stored in the proper environment. Storing the machine in a dry and clean environment will keep it free from dust, dirt and other elements that can cause wear and damage over time.
Also, it is important to remember that the Singer 1919 is not intended to be used on a regular basis. Therefore, it should only be used sparingly and with care.
Insuring the Machine
Given the value of a vintage Singer 1919 machine, it is important to insure it in case it is damaged or stolen. This can be done through an antique insurance policy, which covers antique items such as the Singer 1919. The cost of an antique insurance policy will depend on the value of the machine and the coverage it provides.
It is also important to remember that an antique insurance policy will only cover the machine itself, and not any accessories or parts that may come with the machine. Therefore, it is important to purchase a separate insurance policy for any accessories or parts that come with the machine.
Summary
The value of a vintage Singer 1919 can vary widely depending on its condition and any accessories or parts that come with the machine. In general, a fully-functional, best-in-class 1919 model can command several thousand dollars, while a basic model in original condition fetches far less. It is important to get the machine appraised by a professional, as this will give you an accurate assessment of its value.
When purchasing a vintage Singer 1919, it’s important to look for any signs of wear and tear, as well as missing parts. It is also important to properly preserve the machine by storing it in a clean and dry environment and regularly servicing it. It is also advisable to insure the machine in case it is damaged or stolen.
