JNN,
These old shoe patchers are designed in the old style of the 1880's. Great machines. Bradbury, Politype, Claes & Fetje, Dandy were all designed in this style. The cheap Chinese one is the only one made in this style today. Even Claes' design has changed. The needles it used had no scarf on them. It was designed later. Hooks are almost non existent. However, I found a bobbin that will work in the hook.
It measures: dia. 0.604", height 0.206" , hole opening 0.161" Cost $1.25ea.
Did you get my email on the manual for the clicker? Call Diamond Needle or New England Needle to get the specs on the #81 needle.
glenn