Oddball sewing machine question

[catboatguy]

I have been using a singer 111G1555 (German version) for a few years now, and decided that I wanted zig-zag and reverse.  I happened upon a 1987 Bernina 217N-08 and purchased it for under $500 for the head only.

When I got it home, I realized that this machine has never been used. It has never been oiled, and there are no wear marks whatsoever on the pulley. There's a couple of paint chips from storage, but otherwise brand new. see pictures.

I am wondering what this machine is worth to someone who would truly value a new, old stock Bernina before I start working with it. I am sure the value will drop once I add some oil and start working with it. I only sew occasionally, and would probably be just as happy with a well used machine.

Thanks!

[AlZilla]

There are some Bernina nuts out there, so who knows what someone would pay? It looks like a domestic sized base. I'll point out that your 111W is a walking foot and this one isn't, so the capabilities are quite different.

You could throw it in the classifieds for some crazy price and threaten to oil it and start using it if someone doesn't pony up.

Me? It's such a unique and interesting machine, I'd already be using it. It's a single needle but completely ready to run 2 top threads. I wouldn't give it up.

[catboatguy]

That pretty much mirrors my daughter's advice. Thanks

 

[Constabulary]

Bernina 217 is the smoothest ZZ machine I ever used. I owned one with a pattern cam. Super nice, super smooth.

Looks like yours is an 8mm Zig zag - most ZZ machines (in general) have 4-5mm some have 6mm but 8mm is quite hard to find. Price depends on your local market. I think 500 for just the head is not really cheap but on the other hand 8mm ZZ is something you don´t find every day. Keep in mind that you sell it as a private person and not as a dealer who gives some kind of warranty.

I think it would sell better when completely set up with table and servo motor. But if you need a ZZ machine then with the 217 and 8mm ZZ you pretty much have bought the "icing on the cake" machine alreday. If you have work for it - keep it!

 

Edited 20 hours ago by Constabulary

[catboatguy]

I'm leaning more towards keeping and using it myself. I found that Global makes a knock-off 217, and they have a roller feeder if needed. That solves the walking foot dilemma. Thank you for the advice.

[Constabulary]

roller foot is not the same as walking took with a walking foot you can sew other thicknesses much easier. So it depends on your work.