Description: Antique 1883 Willcox and Gibbs Chain Stitch Sewing Machine Ref. MA-47
Maker: Willcox and Gibbs, USA.
Date: 1883
History: In the early 1850s, James Gibbs, a farmer from Virginia, saw an engraving of the top part of a sewing machine and tried to figure out how it, and the bottom part which he could not see, actually worked. He proceeded to make a simple machine in wood!! Creating a hook which used only one thread, he produced a chain-stitch machine. He partnered with James Willcox, and, in 1858, their first production of sewing machines hit the market. The machine was way smaller than the Singer machine and less complicated in every way. Operated with a hand crank to start with, a treadle version was soon introduced. Known as the Willcox and Gibbs Silent Running sewing machine, it became one of the most successful machines of the 19th Century and in 80 odd years of manufacture, it altered very little in design. Domestic machines are no longer made but the company still produces commercial machines to this day.
Description: The 1883 model was one of the most sought-after sewing machines at that time. Made of cast iron in the shape of a G in honour of Gibbs, they produced an excellent chain stitch using a single needle and NO BOBBIN. The chain stitch was stronger and more flexible than the lockstitch. There is a technique of ending the stitch so it does not unravel. Typical of that period where items were made to last , the instructions, if the needle appeared to be blunt, was to take it out and sharpen it on a whetstone! The wooden table is either mahogany, walnut or oak I am not sure which wood it is. The machine is fitted with wheels so it can be easily moved around. On the cloth plate there is a regulator allowing you to select the number of stitches to the inch as well as a table showing the proper size of needle and length of stitch for each size of cotton or silk used. I have enclosed some printed out instructions I found on-line.
On the side of the machine, just below the Cloth Plate you will find the registration number which is A367636 placing the machine production date as between 1882-1883. The treadle machine, as the one offered, is quite rare, most of these machines found today are hand crank models.
Condition: Overall the machine remains in good condition - and it still sews well see photo. The machine has been correctly threaded and the needle is original. The machine has been fitted with a new leather belt, a new (brass) brake so the machine cannot run in reverse by accident, (originally a small rubber ball was used). The key for the locks on the drawers and the cabinet top is a replacement as are the two struts under the table holding up the extension. One lock mechanism is missing on the table which would anchor down the cabinet. There is a small crack in the wood by the drawers (see photo).
Dimensions: Length (with extension down) is 73 cm, height including the cabinet 99 cm and width is 41 cm. The weight of the machine is roughly 35 kg.
For comparison check on Google to see current prices overseas. On average, a hand crank model will sell FROM R6000 upwards!!
Price: R 2750.00
Shipping: To be undertaken by buyer.
Please note, I am NOT a qualified archaeologist/antiquarian and the description I have given is based on research of the subject.
This is a genuine antique. Please remember the classification of an 'antique' is that it should be 100 years old, OR MORE.
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