Western Auto Model 62-8847-6
The Western Auto Citation sewing machine — sold under the full badge name “Citation Custom Zig Zag” and model number 62-8847-6 — is a sharp-looking vintage machine. Information about it is scarce, but the evidence points clearly to Brother as the manufacturer. Brother built it in Japan under the Western Auto brand, and the motor confirms it: it carries the Brother name right on the part.
The Western Auto Citation is an all-metal machine on the outside — knobs and buttons aside. Brother designed it for a cabinet or carry case, so it has two separate power plugs: one for the motor controller and one for the light. The light has its own on/off switch on the rear, and you don’t need it plugged in or switched on to sew.
Controls
The Citation’s controls are straightforward — and that’s a good thing. The four-step buttonhole dial sits on top of the machine, while the reverse button is built into the center of the stitch width knob. To its left is the stitch pattern selector, which handles blind stitch, zig-zag, and stretch stitch.
Bobbins and needles
The Western Auto Citation uses a Singer-style oscillating hook with Class 15 bobbins and bobbin case. It takes standard 15×1 home sewing needles, inserted with the flat side facing right — which means the machine threads from left to right.
One quirk worth knowing: the Citation uses a left-home needle position. In straight stitch mode, the needle sits at the far left of a zig-zag style foot. If you want to use a straight stitch needle plate or presser foot, make sure it accommodates that position. Left-home needles aren’t common on modern machines, but they were standard on many earlier Japanese and European models.
Brochure, Warranty Card and Quick Start Guide
The machine included light documentation that goes to pains to not say who manufactured the machine. I have to admit that I really like the art style though.
Glass Cannon
When you pop the top cover off of this machine is looks bulletproof. Unfortunately just below the layer of cast iron and steel are two important gears that are made of plastic.
The Western Auto Citation is a tank — with one caveat. Two plastic gears drive the stitch width mechanism and the stitch pattern cam, and they’re the machine’s only real weakness. On this example both gears are in good shape and the machine sews well, but they’re worth keeping an eye on.
The cam follower puts particular stress on its drive gear. Most sewers won’t use the stretch stitch setting often, but it would be a shame to lose it to a stripped gear.
This is a case where cost-cutting genuinely hurt an otherwise excellent product. Replace those two gears with metal and the Citation would be an easy must-have. As it stands, it’s still a very good machine — just go in with eyes open.
Under the Deck
The bottom end of this machine is well designed and easy to maintain.
Western Auto Model 62-8847-6 Specs
| Brand | Western Auto |
| Model | Citation Custom Zig Zag |
| Model Number | 62-8847-6 |
| Machine Body | Cast Iron |
| Drivetrain & Gears | Plastic and Metal |
| Color | Eggshell with Purple Accents |
| Feed Dog Drop | Yes |
| Motor | 140w |
| Motor Mount | External, Covered Belt |
| Foot Type | Low Shank, Zig Zag |
| Weight | 31 pounds |
| Needle System | 15×1 |
| Hook Type | Oscillating |
| Bobbin Type | Class 15 |
| Light Bulb | Bayonet Style |