I have the opportunity to either buy this machine outright or trade work hours. Do any of you have an opinion as to the value? I am guessing it is about 10 years old. Runs well and I have sewn on it for about 6 months. Is there such a thing as a "blue book" of industrial sewing machines? Thanks Carol
Carol:
Your best bet is to call Bob Kovar. He can give you a price that you should pay.
Bob knows every machine out there and knows their values as he deals in used machines all the time.
I will tag him on this link and see if I can get the old man to jump on here and answer your question for you.
Chris
I've always sewn on triple -feed machines (the presser foot, feed dog, and needle all move in unison).
I understand that this particular Brother model is a dual feed (only the foot and feed dog move together.......but not the needle). The needle just goes up and down independently, but it doesn't "walk" with the other 2 parts.
I see models like that one on Craigslist often for around $900. I think that is way too much for a used dual feed, when you can get a brand new triple-feed for just a few hundred dollars more.
Carol:
Bob is having difficulties signing on to the forum. He did tell me that
the average cost would be $ 500 - 600 depending on condition.
Chris
I ended up paying him cash for the machine. I thought it would be better than to be tied to him until the time is used up. $400.00. I think I did ok. Got him to toss in the swing away binder as well. Thanks for the advise!
Carol:
That was a good deal based on what Bob told me.
Congrats,
Chris
If you've already been sewing on it and you're happy with it, I think $400 is a price that's fair to both of you.
The price is right. Good deal.