Hi Chapper, the Juki 563 (as everyone has said), is one of the best machines built. Long after we're all dead.......it will still be sewing somewhere! The Juki 563 takes a "U" stlye bobbin, which is the largest in it's class. The Consew 255 takes the "U" style as well. It is larger than a 226/111w/562 bobbin and also larger than the "M" style that so many machines take today. It was made in Japan during the booming years of sewing in the U.S.A. It takes the same feet (as Bob said), that the 226/111w/562 take as well as the needle plate, feed dog, needle bar, and timing belt, as well as most of the parts. The hook is larger because of the "U" style bobbin. If you set this machine up for leather, (speed reducer, servo motor, and the correct feet and needle), you will be very pleased for a long time. Thanks, Steve