Investors and collectors alike have long been interested in vintage Singer sewing machines. But many ask the same question: How much are they worth? The answer starts with understanding the different factors that can affect a vintage Singer’s value.
Age, Condition, Model and Style
A Singer from the 1950’s, for instance, is considered an antique and is worth much more than a similar machine from the 1970s. The machine’s condition and originality are also key factors that impact value. Any missing original components or parts, will affect how much the machine is worth. Slight cosmetic issues like minor paint chips or rust, won’t decrease the machine’s value as much as a missing or damaged part. Finally, Singer sewing machines value also depends on the model and style. Popular models like Featherweights and the Singer 66 can be worth several times more than lesser-known models.
Experts Opinion
For those looking to gain an accurate estimate of value, experts like antique appraisers, antique shop owners, and online vintage sewing machine forums, can offer the best insight. Experts will often analyze cosmetic issues, check the originality of parts, and compare the machine’s condition and model to online marketplaces to come up with a fair appraisal. Collectors interested in a particular model may also be able to provide an inventory of recent sales prices.
Online Marketplaces
Online auction sites like eBay and Etsy are also helpful for educating yourself on the true market value for a vintage Singer. The site’s interface allows you to research prices for recent sales, as well as compare the differences of how much different models, in varying conditions, go for. Another site, Kovels.com, is especially helpful for determining what a well-preserved 1950 Singer is worth. With information about recent sales and a good understanding of the sewing machine’s condition, an owner can get a good idea of what the machine is worth.
What’s the 1950 Singer worth?
In general, a well-preserved 1950 Singer is worth around $900. Unrestored models often sell for around $400-600 due to their need of cleaning and repair. A model in mint condition and with original accessories intact can easily exceed $1000. Taking the condition and model into consideration, a wide range of options and final values can be found.
Value Appreciation
Many have discovered that vintage Singer sewing machines can appreciate in value when properly stored and cared for. In fact, many models are becoming rarer and rarer and steadily becoming more marketable with vintage collectors. Owners looking to sell should make sure to properly document the condition of the machine, take detailed photos, and include any original parts and accessories for a better price.
Accessories and Parts
But value isn’t strictly limited to the machine itself. Original attachments, cabinets, bobbin cases, and thread spools, can be very valuable to collectors. On its own, a 1950 Singer might not be worth much. But collectible accessories like drawers, cases, and threading units, can easily add a few hundred dollars to the machine’s final value.
Inspection and Maintenance
In addition to gaining an accurate value, owners should make sure to inspect their machine and possibly get it looked over by an expert. Machines that require lubrication, replacement parts, and adjustment, can start to become worn-down and lose their optimal value over time. Unlubricated machines can also become decrepit in a matter of weeks. Making sure to properly clean and maintain the machine is essential to maintain its value and longevity.
Final Thoughts
For investors and collectors, the vintage Singer sewing machine is a valuable asset. It’s ability to appreciate in value, as well as its popularity with antique collectors, has made the machine an intriguing buy-liquidate-trade item. But before sellers invest, they should make sure to know exactly what they have by researching the model and study it’s condition. They should gather insight from experts and online resources before ascertaining what their 1950 Singer is truly worth.
Price Variance on Different Models
The variability in prices amongst different models is part of the appeal of collecting vintage Singers. The Singer 128-19 is one of the most expensive models due to its intricate design and potential for personalisation. It’s box-style body made it a standout, and some come with fabric designs and patterns. The model was created in the 1950s and, since then, the price for a collector’s 128-19 has steadily increased. However, even mint-condition models, which can retain their value for many years, nowadays carries a lower price than rarer and older models.
Price Dependent on Accessories
The value of a vintage Singer also depends on whether it’s a basic, basic plus or special model. A basic model was the least expensive when it was initially sold and usually comes with limited accessories. On the other hand, a special model usually comes with its own foot pedal, belt and a case. Accessories add considerable value to vintage models, as they provide buyers with the opportunity to use the machine as a practical rather than just a decorative item. As such, a basic plus or special model is likely to garner a much higher price than a basic version.
The Rise in Popularity
The rise of the DIY movement is largely responsible for the resurgence in interest for vintage Singer models. As people become more interested in creating their own designs and repairing fabrics with a traditional sewing machine, vintage models have seen a welcome resurgence in popularity. This has resulted in a surge of interest from buyers, resulting in higher prices and more competition for older and rarer Singers. Consequently, anyone looking to invest in a 1950 Singer should do their due diligence and research values online, as well as drawing on expertise from antique appraisers and antique shop owners, to ensure they don’t overpay.
Qualities that Affect Price
The demand for vintage Singer machines has become so great and prices so dependent on quality that there are even groups online devoted to ensuring people pay the correct amount for a machine. These groups examine the condition, quality of the details, lifestyle of the machine and any extras that come with it to calculate an accurate estimate of the market value. Ultimately, the desire for a rare vintage Singer is what drives the market, and for some models the sky is the limit when it comes to how much people are willing to pay.
