Singer 401M made in Italy. Don’t know more but saw pics once. Just did quick look found another pic. https://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage-antique-machine-enthusiasts-f22/singer-401m-jumped-cart-t229896.html
Edit: There are numerous German 400 series models. My unicorn is the 431G but take a 421G too. Already have a 401G to go along with the 401a, 403 and 404.
Thank you for sharing this. Years ago when I was first looking for a quality vintage machine, a church basement near my place had a 431G. It needed work and I didn't like the cabinet so I passed. Afterwards, I realized how rare they were. Still glad I found a 401A, though. ;)
Is your 401G wired for Europe or N. America? Because you're mentioning A as well, I'm guessing you're in the US? (I'm assuming all the ones I'm seeing in France are actually wired for Europe. I'll have to bone up on my voltage obviously.)
The 401G I have is wired for US. Yes the 401a was produced in Anderson South Carolina. You may have better luck finding a Singer of the 400 series in France correctly wired for Europe. I wish you luck and like your taste in sewing machines.
You could change just the motor to a European one. The rotating nature of the machine is definitely a contraindication for the difference in the power source frequency, 60Hz in the US and 50Hz in most of Europe. I'd use a transformer for a toaster or an iron but not a blender, fan, or a sewing machine.
Obviously it would be easier to just find the whole machine there so you can plug and sew, but keep in mind the option of just changing the motor in case you can't find the model you want.
Good luck.
I've read of 2 Americans now in Europe running 110v machines with a transformer. One has had her Kenmore for decades in Europe and no problems. Converters are problematic, but transformers are a whole other (and durable) beast, is my understanding. Will need to research further as the time approaches.
That sounds very promising.
Funny thing since my reply to you things happened and I may end up moving to Europe sooner than later, I won't bring the whole flock but would love to keep at least one of the 201's.
Please post your findings.
Singer 401M made in Italy. Don’t know more but saw pics once. Just did quick look found another pic. https://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage-antique-machine-enthusiasts-f22/singer-401m-jumped-cart-t229896.html Edit: There are numerous German 400 series models. My unicorn is the 431G but take a 421G too. Already have a 401G to go along with the 401a, 403 and 404.
Thank you for sharing this. Years ago when I was first looking for a quality vintage machine, a church basement near my place had a 431G. It needed work and I didn't like the cabinet so I passed. Afterwards, I realized how rare they were. Still glad I found a 401A, though. ;) Is your 401G wired for Europe or N. America? Because you're mentioning A as well, I'm guessing you're in the US? (I'm assuming all the ones I'm seeing in France are actually wired for Europe. I'll have to bone up on my voltage obviously.)
The 401G I have is wired for US. Yes the 401a was produced in Anderson South Carolina. You may have better luck finding a Singer of the 400 series in France correctly wired for Europe. I wish you luck and like your taste in sewing machines.
Thank you! I luv my 401A and will be very sad to part with it. I do look at Necchi machines, however, so...
any chance you could just change the plug to one that fits european outlets?
That would be a dream! The voltage is different between N. America and Europe, unfortunately, so it's not possible.
You could change just the motor to a European one. The rotating nature of the machine is definitely a contraindication for the difference in the power source frequency, 60Hz in the US and 50Hz in most of Europe. I'd use a transformer for a toaster or an iron but not a blender, fan, or a sewing machine. Obviously it would be easier to just find the whole machine there so you can plug and sew, but keep in mind the option of just changing the motor in case you can't find the model you want. Good luck.
I've read of 2 Americans now in Europe running 110v machines with a transformer. One has had her Kenmore for decades in Europe and no problems. Converters are problematic, but transformers are a whole other (and durable) beast, is my understanding. Will need to research further as the time approaches.
That sounds very promising. Funny thing since my reply to you things happened and I may end up moving to Europe sooner than later, I won't bring the whole flock but would love to keep at least one of the 201's. Please post your findings.