So I've been following Craigslist and eBay, and the prices the vintage Bernina 830 and 930 Record machines command are daunting. A beautiful, very complete 930 came up on our local Craigslist, and I certainly considered it, but it was $900. The 830s were manufactured from 1972 through 1977, so they are now between 36 and 42 years old.

There is a wide range of used sewing and embroidery machines available at bargain prices on popular sites such as eBay. But how do you know you’re getting a truly great deal? It’s important to consider what you need the machine for. If you’re looking for a cheap sewing machine for beginners, quality might not be your number one priority, but if you’re an experienced embroiderer you’ll be more likely to want a versatile and durable machine and might be willing to pay slightly more for it. Let’s take a look at what you should consider when purchasing a second-hand sewing machine.

Which is the best brand of sewing machine?

We asked several of the most-respected textile artists and designers, such as Carol Naylor, Sue Stone, Karen Nicol, Nigel Cheney, Sue Hotchkis and Jo Smith, what their machine of choice was. Without fail, all of them recommended Bernina; what better validation? You can read their opinion in the article The best sewing machines for embroidery.

Having dug a little deeper and scouted around for more of an objective overview, we discovered that most experienced embroiderers and sewers considered the European manufactured machines to be the best quality. These machines are generally rather intuitive and take less time to get to grips with. The following brands are available on eBay and are the best for reliability, quality and local dealer support and servicing.

Bernina

Bernina sewing machines are made in Switzerland. The only way to buy a new Bernina is to go directly to a Bernina dealer in person, as they are not permitted by Bernina to sell the machines over the internet. Because brand new Bernina sewing machines aren’t cheap, there is always a high demand from quilters and embroiderers for pre-owned machines in a good state of repair. It’s important to be aware, that no matter how new the machine is, if you buy a second-hand Bernina on eBay or anywhere else, you won’t be getting a warranty, as the manufacturers don’t allow the transfer from one person to another.

Husqvarna

When we published the article The best sewing machines for embroidery, we were contacted by a few textile artists who said they were surprised that Husqvarna sewing machines weren’t featured. Here’s what one well-established textile artist had to say:

I’m surprised Husqvarna Viking didn’t make the list. Their embroidery machines for domestic users are superb quality. Their Diamond Deluxe machine is fabulous – I had the chance to play on one (sadly out of my present price range) – but for versatility, smoothness of stitching, excellent embroidery output and capacity for digitized embroidery on a domestic scale I think nothing else beats it – not even the Brother PR. One of the advantages of the Husqvarna Diamond is that it can be used for general sewing, quilting and pre-programmed stitching etc not just for embroidery. That’s why I think it’s better value for money than a pure embroidery machine like the Brother PR – which has a comparable embroidery field size.

Having done some more research, Husqvarna machines appear to be much sought-after and receive excellent reviews across the internet. The company has a long-established history of quality design and manufacturing, and is based in Sweden. They pride themselves on serving the needs of passionate sewers across the world.

Textile artists we’ve spoken to have also mentioned their love for the following brands: Brother, Pfaff and Janome.

What do I need the machine to do?

When considering purchasing a sewing or embroidery machine on eBay, have a clear idea of exactly what you need to achieve with the machine. There are two main categories of sewing machine; sewing machines for sewing and quilting and combination sewing machines with automatic embroidery attachments and capabilities.

Choosing the best sewing machine for quilting and sewing

Quality is almost always the number one consideration. The higher the quality of the machine, the more capability it will have to perform a wider range of speciality stitches. Ask yourself if this is important to you or whether you only need the most basic of machines to carry out the most basic of stitches.

There are many lower-quality machines being made, and the better-quality brands (like Bernina and Husqvarna) don’t allow their latest models to be sold on the internet. If you decide you do need a more versatile and long-lasting sewing machine, the cheapest way to get one is to shop around for deals on eBay.

If you need the machine to be rich in features, it’s always worth spending more on a great brand. There is far less of a risk involved in investing in a Bernina, even if it is fairly old, because these machines are built and engineered to last. It’s probable that a second-hand machine by a top-quality brand will last you longer, be more reliable, and cause you less hassle than a brand new generic model by an unestablished company.

Choosing a great combination Sewing/Embroidery machine

eBay offers massive savings (often half-price or better) on first class embroidery machines made by the top manufacturers in the field. With these machines, it’s important to make sure you know exactly what you are getting before you purchase; don’t be afraid to contact the seller and ask questions about any concerns you have. Is there a warranty included? What is included with the purchase? Has the machine been reset to Manufacturer’s standards? Study the images of the machine to check its condition.

Consider the age and condition of the sewing machine

Trying to save money on a pre-owned sewing machine is all very well, but don’t compromise on quality of brand. If you are trying to economise, it’s probably worth looking at slightly older machines rather than newer ones by a lesser brand. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is; if the price seems ridiculously cheap, be mindful and ask questions to see if you get a credible response from the seller. The feedback system on eBay is a useful guide to let you know how trustworthy a certain seller is. With a pricey purchase, like a sewing or embroidery machine, it’s probably best not to buy from a seller with no feedback or previous sales. If the seller has a lot of great feedback, you know you can probably trust their claims about the quality and condition of the machine you’re considering.

Questions you may want to ask the seller

• Does the machine have a needle threader?
• How many feet does the sewing machine have?
• How many stitches does the machine have the capability to do?
• How easy is the machine to thread?
• How many hoops does it have? What sizes?
• How many owners has the machine had?
• Has it been in constant use since it was first bought?
• Does it come with any accessories?
• Is it simple to use?

Buying second-hand sewing machines on eBay – a word of warning

Unfortunately scammers are still rife on the internet, but there are some proven ways to reduce the risk when buying a used sewing machine.

• If the seller has placed the item on a 1 day only auction, be wary. It could be that the person is looking for some quick money and doesn’t actually have the item. The price is likely to be way too low for the machine they’re claiming to be in possession of.
• Take notice of poor feedback. Don’t purchase anything from anyone you don’t have the utmost confidence in.
• Always pay via Paypal or cash on collection. Paypal is free to use and you are protected as a buyer . If you opt not to pay until you see the sewing machine, you have at least some insurance.

What questions would you want to ask the seller of used sewing machines? Let us know in the comments section below.

About the author

Joseph Pitcher is the son of textile artist Sue Stone. He is an actor and voice-over artist and has worked at the RSC, the National Theatre, West End theatres and several other leading regional venues across the UK. Find Joe on Google

View all articles by Joe

Presser Feet

Foot Name	Old Number (3 Digit)	Bernina 930 Part Number	1630 and Earlier Part Number	1630 and Earlier	1630 Only	130-180 Series	180 Only	Used Prices (Range of Low to High)	New Prices (As of 9/1999)
Zigzag Foot	#000	315 000 043	002 598 7000	#0	#0
Zigzag Foot WITH FINGER GUARD (Was Foot #99)	#099	001 776 7000	#0 With Guard	#0 With Guard
Reverse Pattern Foot	560	002 576 7000	#1	#1
Reverse Pattern Foot- 9mm - Coded	#1C	#1C
Overlock Foot	#470	315 470 045	002 577 7000	#2	#2
Overlock Foot for Model 180	#2A
Buttonhole Foot - Manual	#452	315 452 045	002 578 7000(930/801S = 315 452 045 and 802/803 = 215 033 045)	#3	#3
Automatic Buttonhole Foot (5.5mm)	1130/1230 = 002 074 7100; 1130S = 001 250 7000	#3A	#3A
Buttonhole Front with Slide Foot	#033	315 033 045	006 686 7000	#3B	#3B
Manual Buttonhole Foot - 9mm	#3C	#3C
Automatic Buttonhole Foot - 9mm	#3C	#3C
Zipper Foot	#007	315 007 046	002 579 7000	#4	#4
Blindstitch Foot	#016	315 016 146	002 580 7000	#5	#5
Embroidery Foot	#030	315 030 042	002 581 7000	#6	#6
Tailor Tack Foot	#419	315 419 045	002 582 7000	#7	#7
Jeans Foot	#145	315 145 044	002 583 7000	#8	#8
Darning Foot	#285	315 285 144	002 584 7000	#9	#9
Edgestitch Foot	#492	315 492 042	002 585 7000	#10	#10
Edgestitch Foot - 9mm	#10C	#10C
Cordonnet Foot	002 952 7000	#11	#11
Bulky Overlock Foot	#528	002 951 7000	#12	#12
Bulky Overlock / Braiding Foot - 9mm	#12C	#12C
Straight Stitch Foot	#038	315 038 045	002 963 7000	#13	#13
Zipper Foot with Guide	006 388 7000	#14	#14
Wide Gathering Foot	#508	002 596 7000	#16	#16	12.50 -
Extra Wide Gathering Foot	#16	#16
Narrow Gathering Foot	#179	315 179 042	002 579 7000	#17	#17
Button Sew-On Foot	#152	315 152 042	002 959 7000	#18	#18
Open Embroidery Foot	#147	002 588 7000	#20	#20
Open Embroidery Foot - - 9mm (1630/180)	#20C	#20C
Braiding Foot	#189	315 189 142	002 595 7000	#21	#21	12.00 -
Cording Foot - 3 Grooves	000 076 7000	#22	#22
Clear Appliqué Foot	#181	315 181 043	002 960 7000	#23	#23	20.99 -
Freehand Embroidery Foot	002 593 7000	#24	#24
Cording Foot 5 Grooves	000 069 7000	#25	#25
Teardrop Darning Foot	001 980 7000	#26	#26
Wool Darning Foot	#272	315 272 143	002 587 7000	#28	#28
Freehand Quilting Foot	001 128 7000	#29	#29	26.00 -	27.50
Freehand Quilting Foot - Clear -- 9mm	#29C	#29C
Pintuck Fook - 3 Grooves	#526 or #156	315 156 143	002 589 7000	#30	#30
Pintuck Foot - 5 Grooves	#588 or #158	315 158 043	002 590 7000	#31	#31
Pintuck Foot - 7 Grooves Foot	#525 or #028	315 028 044	002 591 7000	#32	#32	16.00 -
Pintuck Foot - 9 Grooves Foot	#589 or #164	315 164 043	002 592 7000	#33	#33
Patchwork Foot (For Piecing)	001 127 7000	#37	#37	15.00 - 15.61
Piping Foot	001 987 7000	#38	#38
Sideways Motion Foot - 1630/180	#40C	#40C
Rotary Foot (1630)	#41
Single Sole Walking Foot (OLDER)	930 = 006 330 7101;1530 = 006 330 7100; 940 = 001 770 7002 without seam guide	#50	#50	62.00 - 76.00
Dual Sole Walking Foot ( NEW! )	#50	#50	105.00
Roller Foot	#201	315 201 144	002 953 7000	#51	#51
Zigzag non-stick Foot	#142	315 142 044	002 586 7000	#52	#52
Zigzag non-stick Foot - 9mm	#52C	#52C
Straight Stitch non-stick Foot	002 962 7000	#53	#53
Zipper Foot non-stick	002 964 7000 (930 = 315 547 040)	#54	#54
Leather Roller Foot	572	315 572 040	001 927 7000	#55	#55	15.50 -
Open Embroidery Foot	#56	#56
2mm Zigzag Hemmer Foot	569	315 569 040	002 956 7000	#61	#61
2mm Straight Stitch Hemmer Foot	166	315 166 242	002 957 7000	#62	#62
3mm Zigzag Hemmer Foot	002 961 7000	#63	#63
4mm Straight Stitch Hemmer Foot	#003	315 003 042	002 955 7000	#64	#64
6mm Zigzag Hemmer Foot	177	315 177 031	002 972 7000	#66	#66
2mm Roll and Shell Hemmer Foot	#168	315 168 042	002 958 7000	#68	#68
4mm Roll and Shell Hemmer Foot	001 129 7000	#69	#69
4mm Lap Seam Foot	#174	002 954 7000	#70	#70
8mm Lap Seam Foot	#178	002 973 7000	#71	#71
Low Shank Adapter For Generic Feet (and current Ruffler)			001 947 7000	#75	#75
Adaptor Shank - Short Extension	#187
Adaptor Shank - Long Extension
Adapter for Older Rufflers	001 985 7000	#77	#77
CUT N SEW Attachment (Comes With Foot #90)	1530 = 001 749 7000; 930 = 001 749 7001	#80	#80
Eyelet Embroidery Attachment (Includes Foot #92)	001 996 7000	#82	#82
Circular Embroidery Attachment	001 772 7100 (930 = 333 018 040)	#83	#83
Binder Attachment 20-24mm (Requires Foot # 94)	177	315 177 031	001 981 7100	#84	#84
Binder Attachment 22-26mm (Requires Foot # 94)	001 981 7101	#84	#84
Binder Attachment 26-30mm (Requires Foot # 94)	001 981 7102	#84	#84
Bias Binder (Requires Foot Adapter #75)	001 970 5000	#85	#85
Ruffler (Comes with Adapter #75)	76	315 076 040	1530/930/940 = 001 944 7000; 830/840/811/801/817/900 = 001 944 7001	#86	#86
Cut'n'sew Foot	001 731 7000 (930 = 001 790 7000)	#90	#90	51.00 - 56.00
Eyelet Embroidery Foot (For Use With Eyelet Embroidery Attachment #82)	001 926 7000	#92	#92
Binder Foot (For use with Binder Attachment #84)	001 971 7000	#94	#94
Red Dot Foot (for 930)	#650
Threader	334 188 040
Supplementary thread guide	334 190 040	#89
Black-latch Bobbin Case	001 534 7202
Regular-latch Bobbin Case	27.00 -
Topstitch foot	499	315 499 042
Foot for Knitters	528	315 528 040
Embroidery Ring 115 mm	#039	330 039 040
Embroidery Ring 145 mm	#028	330 028 040
Embroidery Ring 210 mm	#040	330 040 040
Embroidery Ring 270 mm	#035	330 035 040
Circular Embroidery Attachment	#018	333 018 040
English Emboidery att. Cpl.	103	334 103 040
Adjustable Zipper Foot	177	315 177 031
Hemmer 5 mm	177	315 177 031
Adjustable Hemmer 0-30 mm	231	315 231 030
Lap Hemmer	174	315 174 042
Lap Hemmer 10 mm	177	315 177 031

Model	COMMENTS
125J
520
530	This machine DID make the best stitch of any machine I have ever owned.
540-S Favorit	The presser feet did NOT have numbers on in those days - but the description I'm giving is the modern (numbered equivalent). BTW they look exactly the same still! These came with the machine. Zig-zag, Button sew-on, embroidery (with couching hole), rolled hem (narrow and wide), straight stitch, narrow flat felling, narrow gathering, zipper foot (only right side notch), darning, blind hemmer, and the circular embroidery attachment. The USA $ equivalent of the orignal purchase price would be (Rand R 400.00) $ 66.00! Can you imagine!!
707
708
730 Record	ACTUAL MACHINE IS ALL METAL. All 730s were available with foot control or knee operated lever, and were finished in a dark almond very pale avocado shade of enamel. The Bernina 730 Record is a solid metal mechanical portable, great for machine quilting, similar to the 830, but without the knee lift. It features a 24mm basting stitch.
731	can do zig zag, 4 needle positions, 4 mm w max, 4 mm l max, blindhemming serpentine and 2 additional ornamental stitches plus buttonholes
732	732 can do zig zag, 4 needle positions, 4 mm max l and w no utility ornamental stitches
800
801S	I love my 801 sport. I carry it to work in the back of the car. It is a wonderful machine. It sews everything from the thinnest sheer fabric to the heaviest upholstery or denim. Purchased new 1984. Never needed repair only cleaning maintenance. Used everyday since purchase. Original light bulb did not need replacement until 2001. Perfect Free Motion embroidery, satin stitch, double and triple needle designs with 8 built-in stitches. Sews upholstery, denim, silk fabric; any project from Barbie clothes and quilts to slipcovers.
801
802
802S
803
807
811
817
830	Earlier models of the 830 had a carbon rheostat speed controller - the footpedal was a metal plate on a metal box. Later models used the dependableelectronic AC speed control. older models have foot control overheating problem (T sticker under pedal if fixed), check speed (if slow, may be abused)After 27 years of hard use I have just had my first tune up. I was told that my machine is now good for another 27 years. I was thinking of upgrading but am now rethinking.One of the very bestmechanical machines that Bernina ever made. A real workhorse. At the time,it was top-of-the-line. Can do double-needle zig-zag stitching with up to 3mm double needles, or triple needle up to 3mm. It can do straight stitchingwith the 4 mm double needle. Machine came with the white plastic Berninabuttonhole measure device, the L-shaped stitch guide that hooks to the backof a machine foot often called the 'quilting guide', cleaning brush, Bernina seam ripper, Bernina screwdriver, small squeeze tube of machine oil,
840
900 Nova	The Bernina 900 Nova was a lightweight machine with a hard case that opens like a book and attaches to the back of the machine. There weren't many of these machines sold in the USA and they are rarely ever offered for sale.
901
910
930	two-speed motor, DC motor - better needle penetration than 830 at any speed, ; I think this was near the last of the Mechanical machines (before computerization) and I have been very happy with it. It does a fine job for everything I need as this point. It does a good job with Machine Quilting which was why I bought it originally. Haven't had it serviced for problems but a couple of times and those were minor.After sewing in an opera costume shop and using various industrial type machines, my Bernina 930 matches in power and surpasses in stitch quality, it only lacks speed. If I upgrade, I will still keep my Bernina 930. A very dependable machine. Absolutely no repairs ever needed. Any problems have been user caused and easily solved. Love the fact that there are no tension problems with it. It's a dream!
930n
931
1000
1000s
1001
1005
1006
1008	[ I really do like it - it sewsvery nice. The only thing I don't like is the bobbin - I like a drop in and this one has the case you need to insert.
1010	Good solid workhorse. No complaints at all.
1011
1020	Retractable power cable
1030	Retractable power cable
1031	The feed was redesigned to be square, not orbital like the earlier machines. The buttonhole feature only goes forward, with no steps done in reverse (much better than a 930 buttonhole). Plus, there are twin halogen lights. It would be a perfect machine if it had a basting stitch and a feather stitch. However, it's as strong as a horse even though I'm suspicions of it's 'no oil' sealed case. It has a separate bobbin winding motor, you don't have to press the foot control or stop sewing to wind bobbins.
1031QE
1080
1090	a truly wonderful machine -- great for machine quilting!
1090s	Same as 1090 but automatic buttonhole, no retractable cable, ruler on carry table.
1090QE	Sews wonderfully. Love the machine.
1120
1130	Same as 1230 but no alphabet.This model has been a workhorse. Has made everything from heirlooms towedding gowns to quilts. Never has had any mechanical or other problems. Love this machine! easy, reliable, a real workhorse.
1230	Have been very happy with this sewing machine, it has done a lot of work and I have never had to call out a repair man. The machine is used for dressmaking, making curtains, heirloom sewing and embroidery. I have taken it to numerous classes with no problems. The only complaint is the weight when transporting it. My little sport 801 bought in 1986 for 386 pounds is now with my daughter and is still going strong. I love this machine, it is solid and easy to use. The programmable buttonholer is a real timesaver. I sew and quilt (machine quilting, freehand mostly) with it.
1260	I have found this machine to be a wonderful all around machine. I do alot of garment sewing as well as quilting. It was very easy to learn howto use and is very low maintenance. When my serger broke last year, I didnot find it necessary to replace it because I found that this machine wasmore than adequate for my needs.; A WORKHORSE
1260QPE	The light switch has been proven to be defective.The machine will sew 1 stitch after you let off the pedal sometimes. Excellent stitch quality.
1530	Screen on front of machine (5' x 2') shows menus and currentsettings is activated by tracking ball with cursor. Machine and FootControl have retractable cords. Has a bolt screw underneath to fasten machine to a sewing table.
1630	Early models had problems, pay extra for “keys”.Addl accessories standard: Needle ThreaderBobbin CaseInstruction Book (with eight plastic monogram/stitch guides)Stitch Charts (two foldout pages)Update '96 Insert (one page, front & back)Balance Insert (one sheet, front & back, folded in half)Accessories BoxFive 1630 BobbinsNeedle AssortmentSeam RulerSeam RipperHeight Adjustment Tool (white plastic on swivel)Darning Ring w/ ArmSmall ScrewdriverSpecial ScrewdriverCleaning BrushOil BottleSeam/Quilting GuideI LOVE IT! HAD A BERNINA RECORD FOR MANY YEARS AND COULDN'T PART WITH IT TO UPGRADE.IMHO the quilting stitch isfor the birds, and I wish I had a presser foot pressure adjustmentcapability. Wouldn't trade the knee lift and needle down for anything in the world. Bottom line --I love my 1630. I am disturbed by the fact that many did not have the support that many would have anticipated from their dealer, but there are still some who do offer wonderful expertise in the 1630. In fact this machine has become highly sought after recently. Fortunately for the Bernina 1630 Owners online you do have the marvelous support from other owners through several Bernina sewing list. The primary one being the 1630 Machine digest or list. It began in 1997 at http://www.quiltropolis.com (under mailing lists you may subscribe). By belonging to this list you will gain valuable knowledge from its talented members, and be directed to additional sites to assist its owners in a continuing understanding of this wonderful machine!1999 saw the beginning of gatherings of 1630 owners in California, Florida, Honey Creek, and Pennsylvania. Retreats were held for the sole purpose of meeting other owners and spending 2-3 days together mentally stitch-filled! 2000 will see additional retreats with another in San Antonia, Texas in April.If you have not been fortunate enough to learn all about your 1630, no longer can it be blamed on the dealers!
1630I+	WISHED IT HAD COME WITH THE QUILT HAND LOOK STITCH, BETTER SUPPORT, FEEL LIKE WE JUST DROPPED IN THEDIRT, VIKING WERE THE MOST IMPORTANT AT OUR DEALERSHIPS, IF YOU HAD A BERNINA YOU WERE ON YOUR OWN. NEVER HEARD ABOUT ANY UPGRADES, WHEN I FINALLY DID ON THE NET, IT WAS TO EXPENSIVE. WHEN I BOUGHT MINE, WAS TOLD THAT WHEN THE COMPUTER INTERFACE BECAME AVAILABLE WOULD RECEIVE IT FOR FREE, TOLD ME LATER I WOULD HAVE HAD TO PAY FOR IT. DO BELIEVE THE 1630 EASIEST TO USE. WILL NOT DEAL WITH THE THREE BIG DEALERSHIPS IN MY AREA BECAUSE OF THE WAY I WAS TREATED. I WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT AS A QUILT TEACHER THERE I WOULD HAVE TO UPGRADE TO THE TOP OF THE LINE IN THE NEW MODELS. I COULD NOT JUSTIFY THE BIG INCREASE IN COST, WHEN MY 1630 WAS A PERFECTLY GOOD MACHINE. THIS WAS ONE OF THE REASON WHY I WAS LET GO, THAT AND I SAID I PREFERRED BERNINA'S OVER VIKINGS. THEY SUPPOSEDLY LOST A SALE ON A TOP OF LINE VIKING BECAUSE OF ME. OH WELL, WATER UNDER THE BRIDGE. DO WISH THAT US 1630 OWNERS WOULD HAVE BEEN TREATED BETTER.
130	PRESSER FOOT PRESSURE ADJUSTABLE; FREE INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO INCLUDED AS ACCESSORY; The automatic buttonhole is very disappointing. They do not come out consistent.
140	PRESSER FOOT PRESSURE ADJUSTABLE; FREE INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO INCLUDED AS ACCESSORY
150
150QE	PRESSER FOOT PRESSURE ADJUSTABLE; FREE INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO INCLUDED AS ACCESSORY; UP TO 12 STITCHES CAN BE REPROGRAMMED BY DEALER TO REPLACE EXISTING STITCHES
160
170	This is the 170 without the embroidery unit. A textile artist has recommended the Bernina 170 to me as being superior to the 180 for free-motion embroidery because it retains the oscillating hook. This enables easy tension adjustments on the lower bobbin.
170QPE	This is the 170 with the embroidery unit. I have had this machine since 11/99 and love it! Prior to this machine I had a Kenmore and there is no comparison. This machine has pieced quilts with excellent stitch quality, and sewn numerous embroidery designs with excellent results! The only problem I have had has been with some looping during embroidery, and I discovered that could be corrected by skipping the last thread guide before the needle when threading the machine. I would highly recommend this machine to anyone interested in sewing, quilting, and embroidery.
180	MUCH MORE TEMPERAMENTAL THAN OLDER STYLE BERNINAS BUT DOES A LOT MORE --- LIKE A FERRARI VS A CHEVY The difference between a 180 and a 180E is only that you don't (180) or do own the embroidery module (180E). The machines are sold to the dealers separately, and they are sort of 'mix and match' . An embroidery module can be used with either the 170 or the 180 interchangeably, and turns either one into an 'E' model. There is no other difference in the machines. There is, however, a difference between a 'version 1' and a 'version 2' and that is simply a software upgrade that was done free by the dealers during the last year.
180E	Sews like a dream. Dealer available to train and answer questions; Bernina Club inspires me.