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As mentioned in another section of the forum, I acquired this 45Ks.V83 last week from FB marketplace. Made in 1916 with three generations in one family, I was so damn excited to find a machine preserved in almost working order. Was also fascinated as the seller shared their family story. I had been looking for a cylinder arm to assist with my work for over eight months. Being an avid Singer fan for over 30 years had me scrambling to make to 1100km trip to pick up this beastie. The renovation went well. Before I had picked up the machine I had some vague dreams of mounting it back on a treadle stand. Two things brought this to an end. 1) the weighted flywheel on the original stands is very rare here in oz. Found some stands but alas not the 2 or 3-geared wheel. 2) when I got the machine the motor and gearing setup was endearing for its history and age. The cast iron stand was also an Australian-manufactured frame. Some questions I hope to share and explore with the talented brains trust here = 1) Can anyone shed light on this version?? 45Ks.V83? The 'V83' is not listed in any archive I can find from Singer at the time (serial no. lists it from the Clydebank Factory. 1916. One of 1500 45k. Quite a big batch. Gearing up for war manufacturing????) 2) Any light on the 's'. Had assumed it was 'Saddler' but only as I had seen it in the factory inventories occasionally. As Stewey mentioned this is unlikely as most of these would enter the saddlery trade regardless. Agree that it could mean 'special' but am wondering is others might have insight. 3) the rectangle work plate has also been hard to find in manuals and catalogues from the time. Stewey also mentioned he had these on his. Is it possible that these were for the Australian market or do others have these plates?? Oval is listed in special order lists from the period. Anyhoo... Adding images of the reno for those interested in the Singer 45K and the next person who might be looking for anything on these wonderful leather stitchers. . Big thanks for this site and the effort everyone has put in to support the community and subject. All the best. More progress pics And the last

Hi everyone my first time here, I’m just starting out as a leather crafter . I started with this old Swiss military bag I’ve had for years which was dry and hard , I’ve cleaned it and oiled it and now it is softer but I just can’t get a shine on the leather , what top coat would really make it pop ? Thanks