Vintage Pfaff Sewing Machine: History & Value Guide

vintage pfaff sewing machine (Source: Ebay)

Pfaff sewing machines from the past are worth a fortune and might be expensive. If you own an older Pfaff, it’s interesting to study a little bit about the company’s background and find out what makes these machines significant. This German manufacturer has a reputation for creating some of the most efficient products available on the market ever since it started manufacturing in 1862.

Continue reading our article to find out more about the history of Pfaff and the year that your sewing machine was created. Get up to speed and determine the value and worth of your Pfaff machine.

Pfaff Sewing Machine History

Many craftsmen were encouraged by the industrial revolution to start their own businesses and look for success in a number of fields. When the industrial revolution first began in 1862 in Kaiserslautern, Germany, one man spotted his opportunity.

Georg Michael Pfaff made musical instruments, but he also recognized sewing machines as a huge possibility to succeed financially. His original sewing machine is still on display at the Munich Science and Technology Museum.

He only produced one that year, but over time he was able to expand his productivity, producing six in 1863 and forty-six in 1864. He dispatched his son to see production facilities and tool factories in 1876 after learning that the German sewing machine industry purchased its equipment from America. He then ordered toolkits, drilling machines, and global hand tools.

Mr. Pfaff quickly updated his manufacturing processes and equipment before starting to produce thousands of machines. The firm produced its one millionth sewing machine in 1910.

Mr. Pfaff, alas, did not survive to witness this achievement. After his death in 1893, his second son Georg, who was also named Georg, took over the business and helped it grow into one of the finest sewing machine manufacturers in the world.

History of Pfaff extends over 150 years

Here are a few significant turning points in a significant storyline. Pfaff has helped turn sewing from a chore to a creative activity throughout the years.

  • 1872 – First beginnings in Germany in 1902
  • 1920 – Torpedo type spool
  • 1992 – First zig-zag pfaff
  • 1950 – Lightweight models arrive
  • 1960 – Automatic stitches
  • 1968 – The famous 1200 series
  • 1983 – Computerized embroidery models
  • 1988 – Introducing maxi stitches
  • 1990 – Computerized models excel
  • 2002 – Super modern design
  • 2011 – Longer sewing bed
  • 2014 – Launch of new creative models

Models of Vintage Pfaff Sewing Machines

The majority of Pfaff sewing machines have the word Pfaff prominently printed on the body, making them simple to recognize. Additionally, the model number is frequently printed on the front of sewing machines.

Sewing machines made by Pfaff were given letters when they initially went on sale. Pfaff switched to using numerals in the 1800s, nevertheless. Some of the most well-known Pfaff models are listed here.

  • Vintage Pfaff 11 Model

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Through the 1920s, this type was in production. This device’s original name was Model K, and it was available as a hand crank or a treadle design with a vibration shuttle. It has a fancy treadle and intricate golden markings, like the majority of early Pfaff machines.

  • Vintage Pfaff 130 Model

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Pfaff started manufacturing the well-known Pfaff 130 in 1932. These tools enabled users to make zigzag stitches. This old Pfaff sewing machine had good performance, held up well, and could sew thick materials. Since the majority of its components were made of metal, cleaning rather than part replacement was required for these machines to be restored. For many years, Pfaff produced these machines.

  • Vintage Pfaff 230 Model

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Pfaff introduced the 230 model in the middle of the 1950s. The rotary hook facing forward and the extra-wide feed dogs were its two key features. A little while later, the Pfaff 230 Automatic sewing machine was introduced. It includes a unique feature in the arm of the machine that enables zigzag stitching.

  • Vintage Pfaff 260 Model

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The Pfaff 260, commonly known as the Dial-a-Stich type, was another well-liked sewing machine produced by Pfaff and launched in the 1960s. It is an electric machine that is fully automated and has 80 different stitches pre-installed. With its additional special features and stitches, it was still able to sew nine layers of denim and other thick textiles. A 10-year warranty was a further draw.

The internal motor in the Pfaff 260 gives it a more contemporary form than the mounted motor and belt found on older Pfaff models. The machine is still built of metal and is typically grey or cream in color.

  • Vintage Pfaff 1222e Model

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The manufacture of this vehicle continued well into the 1980s after its late 1960s debut. The dual feed technique used in the model allowed it to feed simultaneously through the top and bottom layers of material. This kind of sewing machine featured IDT, or integrated dual technology, a recently added Pfaff sewing machine brand. A second feeder is added by the Pfaff IDT system, although only the feed dogs at the bottom are used to feed fabric through a regular sewing machine.

  • Vintage Creative 1471 Model

Vintage Creative 1471 Model

This model was first under development by Pfaff in 1979, but it wasn’t released to the public until 1983. The fact that this approach was completely programmable and enabled users to easily create their own patterns made it groundbreaking.

  • Vintage Pfaff 1475 Model

Vintage Pfaff 1475 Model
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The first Pfaff sewing machine to produce stitches that were 9 mm wide was this one, which debuted in 1988. The Creative Designer, a Pfaff-only add-on unit, was another feature that enabled the sewer to design and duplicate stitches. Furthermore, it was the first machine to offer 40 mm broad maxi stitches.

  • 7500 Series Pfaff Model

7500 Series Pfaff Model
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In the 1990s, the 7500 series were introduced. They were Pfaff’s first hoop-style embroidery machines, and later models in the series included the ability to feed fabric in several directions with the development of stepping motors that moved the feed dogs.

Since the 1990s, Pfaff has undoubtedly released a large number of new models; but, since our attention is on vintage models, we have not included any of these in our collection.

Identification of Vintage Pfaff Sewing Machines

The serial number for antique Pfaff sewing machine models can be found there. The machine’s sides or bottom may contain the serial number. The serial number and the manufacturing date of more recent Pfaff sewing machines are listed in the instruction manual.

If all you can find on the machine is the serial number, get in touch with Pfaff and ask them when your machines were created. Knowing your sewing machine’s serial number will make it simpler to determine when it was made.

Refer to the chart of sample serial numbers of vintage Pfaff sewing machines and their related manufacturing dates to identify the production date of your Pfaff sewing machine.

Pfaff Sewing Machine Serial Number Production Year
1 1862
1396 1870
37900 1880
118000 1890
473000 1900
1053684 1910
1566186 1920
2487829 1930
3652814 1940
4000000 1950
7000000 1960

Up until 1978, there were further records of the serial numbers of Pfaff sewing machines and the years in which these machines were manufactured provided online. If your sewing machine was produced in a year after 1978, you can ask Pfaff directly.

Having your sewing machine’s serial number on hand will help you when you contact the company to find out when it was manufactured.

How Old Is My Pfaff Sewing Machine?

The majority of the serial numbers used by Pfaff are listed in an internet posting that is a very good database of serial numbers. Sadly, the list only extends through 1975. A second list that only goes up to 1978 covers the same ground as the first.

The first list may be found at this link , while the second one can be found at this link. If your sewing machine was manufactured in a year after 1978, you may need to approach Pfaff directly. The best approach to determine when your machine was made is to know its serial number, so have it close at hand.

Follow this link to visit Pfaff English webpage. There is a FAQ page, but it doesn’t address the serial number issue or give dates for specific sewing machines.

How to find the Value of my Vintage Sewing Machine?

old sewing machine
REDUCED German PFAFF Sewing Machine Sign Advertising CALENDAR VINTAGE C1940s Source

Your old sewing machine might be worth more than you think, regardless of whether you got it from family, bought it at an estate sale, or are an enthusiastic collector. Here are some basic guidelines to help you estimate the value of your vintage sewing machine.

  • Age of the Antique Sewing Machine

The sewing machine’s age is the first criterion of value. In the 1840s, the first functional sewing machine was created. Sewing machines from the middle to end of the 1800s are uncommon and virtually always valued due to their historical significance.

Due to their frequent appearance in vibrant, vintage colors, vintage sewing machines from the 1940s and 1950s are also popular. Despite making for interesting interior décor, sewing machines from the 1900s are not regarded as antiques.

The majority of 20th-century machines were produced in their millions, and because they are composed of metals, many of them withstand the test of time. Sadly, this will lower the sale value. While some machine brands are uncommon, the machine model itself is probably available from a number of sources.

  • Condition

Collectors are concerned about the condition of your antique sewing machine. The machine’s value will be reduced by rusting, chipping, and apparent broken pieces.

Use eBay to conduct more research after taking into account the age and condition of your sewing machine. Another useful resource is online sellers in antiquities. Visit an antique appraiser with your sewing machine if you have searched online and cannot find any sewing machines that are comparable.

You can avoid offers and evaluations that are too low or too good to be true by understanding what influences your sewing machine’s value.

  • Serial Numbers

There is a serial number on every Pfaff sewing machine, which may be found either on the machine itself or in the owner’s manual. The serial number of a vintage model is typically embossed into the machine’s metal, frequently around the hand wheel or on the base.

You might need to read your owner’s manual or a metallic label on certain later models to get this number.

You may use the serial number on your vintage Pfaff sewing machine to determine when it was manufactured.

  • Model Number

The serial number is very important, but the model number also helps in identifying the value of your Pfaff sewing machine to a specific year. On the body of the machine, this number is typically painted or visibly displayed. You will refer to your machine by its model number, such as the 130 or the 260, while speaking with other sewers about it.

How Much is My Antique Pfaff Sewing Machine Worth?

Pfaff sewing machines from the past can sell for anything from $200 to more than $1,000. The price varies according to the individual Pfaff model’s condition and collector’s editions. The model’s features and usefulness, including the built-in hardwood cabinet, may also significantly increase the cost.

Nevertheless, the normal price of many other vintage sewing machine brands is more than twice as much for ancient Pfaff machines! Typically, an old sewing machine costs around $100 or less.

Of course, the cost of modern Pfaff models is absolutely insane!

A common price now for the renowned Pfaff 130 model is $400. Find rare and collectible models on eBay or Etsy that could fetch significantly higher prices by searching such sites!

The genuine worth of a remarkable machine like the antique Pfaff models resides in its functionality, notwithstanding their collectability. These semi-industrial sewing machines have Swiss clock-like precision-fitted components. Additionally, they have a tremendous level of strength for sewing through thick textiles.

These factors make expensive ancient sewing machines so beloved among sewers for actual sewing!

Here is the list of Vintage Pfaff Sewing Machines Sold at Auction or other online platform:

Any sewing machine’s condition plays a significant role in establishing its worth, and Pfaff is no exception. Pfaff values are strongly related to how well-maintained the machine is. If not, it might only be worth a few dollars. However, if the computer has been refurbished or if it is original condition and still works, it might be worth hundreds. Here are some examples of recent Pfaff machine sold prices:

  • Rare 1908 Pfaff 23-2 Industrial Leather Sewing Machine for restoration sold for $425.00

Rare 1908 Pfaff 23-2 Industrial Leather Sewing Machine
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  • PFAFF 7570 Creative 7570 Sewing Machine sold for $229.95

PFAFF 7570 Creative 7570 Sewing Machine
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  • PFAFF 1222E SEWING MACHINE w/ PEDAL & MANUAL (REPAIR) sold for $199.99

PFAFF 1222E SEWING MACHINE
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  • Vintage Germany Pfaff 332 Automatic Sewing Machine with Pedal and Manuals WORKS sold for $169.00

Vintage Germany Pfaff 332 Automatic Sewing Machine
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  • Pfaff Sewing Machine 130 Antique Vintage Estate Black in Original Case Read sold for $102.50

Pfaff Sewing Machine 130
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  • Vintage Pfaff 130 Sewing Machine with Pedal & Book sold for $117.50

Vintage Pfaff 130 Sewing Machine
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  • Beautiful Vintage Pfaff Model 130 With Embroidery Unit sold for $250.00

Pfaff Model 130
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  • PFAFF 30 SEWING MACHINE sold for $50.01

PFAFF 30 SEWING MACHINE
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  • Pfaff 130 sewing machine serviced for leather denim+ (Y54 p2) sold for $295.00

Pfaff 130 sewing machine
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  • PFAFF MODEL 230 ELECTRIC SEWING MACHINE sold for $84.00

PFAFF MODEL 230 ELECTRIC SEWING MACHINE
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  • Pfaff 332 sewing machine vintage with cord & control for parts sold for $140.00

Pfaff 332 sewing machine
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  • Pfaff 30 Electric Vintage sewing machine sold for $31.42

Pfaff 30 Electric Vintage sewing machine

  • Pfaff Tipmatic 1027 Sewing Machinesold for $85.98

Pfaff Tipmatic 1027 Sewing Machinesold

What Is the Lifespan of a PFAFF Sewing Machine?

Pfaff has a history of producing vintage sewing machines, dating back to the company’s first model. A new machine that you purchase today will have a warranty between 5 to 20 years.  What about previous models, though?

There are still antique Pfaffs available in flawless operating condition because the earlier mechanical machines were made to last. Their durability is due to the machines’ strength and perfectly fitting parts. Here’s an example of a vintage Pfaff 230 in operation.

Where to Sell and Buy these Antique Pfaff Sewing Machines Online?

Brick-and-mortar antique shops, thrift stores, and yard sales all sell vintage sewing machines. On eBay or Etsy, you can search for these antique machines. Hence, searching online is your best option if you need to find one immediately. Consider the following sites:

The Pfaff Sewing Machine can be easily found on eBay, one of the greatest sites to find beautiful Antique collectibles. It’s also ideal if you’re considering selling because they provide a very user-friendly e-commerce feature and can reach a sizable global audience.

Since people frequently discover these different Vintage Pfaff Swing Machines in their grandparents’ homes, internet marketplaces like Etsy are among the greatest places to find a ton of these pieces on sale.

When purchasing a vintage machine in a physical store, you may test it out firsthand to make sure it functions as intended. Immediately after buying your antique machine, you can take it home.

Online shopping gives you access to a greater selection of antique machines. In addition, if you purchase the equipment online, some dealers provide a safety net of a return policy.

The drawback of buying your machine online is that, because these vintage models might weigh a ton, you might have to pay a hefty amount for shipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sewing machine is PFAFF?

Pfaff sewing machines are manufactured in Europe to last a lifetime and produce flawless stitches. With its innovative built-in dual fabric feeding system, known as IDT, the brand has a reputation for being among the strongest on the market today.

What’s the Value of My Old Pfaff Sewing Machine?

Pfaff sewing machines from the past can retail for anything from $200 to more than $1,000. The cost varies according to the individual Pfaff model’s condition and collectability.

When was my Pfaff sewing machine manufactured?

Every Pfaff machine has a serial number that enables the owner to ascertain the year of manufacture. For instance, the serial number for machines made in 1862, the first year for Pfaff machines, is 1.

When was the Pfaff 260 manufactured?

The Pfaff 260 industrial sewing machine for zigzag embroidery. In 1960, the Pfaff 260 was introduced. The 260 model, which featured 80 automated stitches and was promoted with a 10-year warranty, was the pride of Pfaff. It was extremely heavy-duty and industrial strength.

Pfaff Sewing Machines Are Efficient and Stunning

Pfaff machines are known for their endurance despite the fact that there are numerous sewing machine brands with a rich history. Antique shops, auctions, and even secondhand shops often have lovely and functional old Pfaff sewing machines. For those who enjoy sewing and the allure of old and antique sewing machines, these are the ideal option.

Summary

Even though many other sewing machine manufacturers have endured the test of time, it is uncommon to discover old and antique models that still function as well as Pfaffs models from decades ago.

Any Pfaff sewing machine from the 1960s would do if you’re searching for an antique that you can still use and has contemporary features like an integrated motor and a number of automatic stitches. If you buy a used Pfaff instead of a new one, you will obtain a sewing machine that is trustworthy and perhaps save some money.

The earlier versions, however, might be more suited if you’re seeking for decorative models. Models from the 1950s like the Pfaff 50 and Pfaff 31 still have excellent design. 

Our Takeaway

If you recently purchased or are considering buying an antique Pfaff sewing machines. Or perhaps you found vintage Pfaff sewing machines in the basement of the new estate. Whatever the situation, you can find out how much a Vintage Pfaff sewing machines is worth by using our guide on identifying and appraising them. However, we strongly advise you to visit a professional appraiser if you want to fully understand the worth and value of your Pfaff sewing machines.

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