Singer 185
Introduced in 1958 the 185 replaced the much loved Singer Model 99, it also happens to be one of my favorite sewing machines. The model 185 was retired in 1963 and replaced by the Singer 285.
Some detail photos of the Singer 185J
185K Motor and light being rebuilt
The 185, 185K, and 185J are almost identical, the only real difference being manufacturing location and possibly color. The 185K was brown for the European market, all other 185 machines came in a light green.
Motor and lamp
Both my 185K and 185J came with the Singer CAT.-S-1 Spot lamp, and Singer CAT.NO.RFJ8-8 motor, both manufactured in Canada. I’m guessing the motors and lamps were added after the machines had been imparted into the Americas. I don’t have a 185 made in the States to compare them to.
Carry Case
Some of the Singer 185 machines came in a cabinet and some in a plastic carry case. Above is the carry case for my 185J. These cases are really cute, but they tend to be very fragile after 60+ years of use and exposure to UV light and the environment. The first thing to go is the little ribs that support the machine in the base (see photo above). It’s a good idea to just keep the case as a decoration without the machine in it since the weight of the machine itself does damage to the case bottom.
What Is It Worth?
If you are looking to buy or sell a Singer 185, market values vary significantly by location. Here in North Florida, they tend to run $50 to $125 based on condition. A machine at the lower end of that scale usually needs a thorough cleaning, lubrication, or a new wiring harness. Machines priced above $100 should be clean, fully operational, and cosmetically sound.
The specific accessories included with the machine also impact the final price. Because the original plastic carrying cases are notoriously fragile and prone to cracking, finding a machine with an intact, undamaged base and lid adds a premium to the value. If the machine comes housed in a sturdy wooden cabinet, or if it includes the original manual, you can expect the price to lean toward the higher end of the local average.
Recommended reading
- Singer 185, 185K and 185J Sewing Machines
- Singer 185 Sewing Machine: How to Restore, Troubleshoot, and Use
Specifications
| Brand | Singer |
| Model | 185 185J 185K |
| Made In | 185 U.S.A. 185J Canada 185K Kilbowie, Scotland, Great Britain |
| Colors | 185 Green 185J Green 185K Green or Brown for the European market |
| Years Produced | 1958-1963 |
| Hook Type | Oscillating |
| Bobbin | Class 66 |
| Bobbin Case | Internal |
| Needle System | 15×1 |
| Foot Type | Low Shank |
| Construction | All metal |
| Construction Drivetrain | All metal |
