Singer Model 66
The Model 66 above was born June 13 1950 in Elizabeth, New Jersey
The Singer Model 66 was offered in treadle, hand crank, and motorized versions. It was available in any color as long as it was black, but it had several decal variations over the years.
I currently (at the time of writing) own three Singer model 66 machines.
The Model 66- above was born July 09 1954 in Elizabeth, New Jersey. This subdued decal pattern is usually referred to as “The Eye”, or “Black Eye”.
This is a model 66 treadle powered machine, born October 03 1912. So far I haven’t found information about the location of manufacture for the machines with a single letter prefix in the serial number. In this case “G” is the SN prefix. It’s hard to tell, but this machine sports the iconic “Red Eye” decals that are unique to the model 66. Also note the spoked handwheel and knob type stitch length control. This machine does not have a reverse, or back tack capability. This specific machine is missing it’s handwheel guard and the bobbin winder assembly that would normally be attached to it.
This is the same Model 66 from 1912 the day it came into my possession, so even though it looks pretty rough, it’s much better looking that it was in it’s “found as” condition. It even sews now.
I did a almost full tear down, clean and reassembly of this machine. You can view the photos and some commentary about each section at the links below.
Singer Model 66 Tear Down Index
- Singer Model 66 disassembled
- Singer Model 66 Treadle Handwheel Assembly
- Hook Driver Assembly and Feed Rocker Assemblies
- Singer Model 66 Needle and Presser Bar Area
- Singer Model 66 Stitch Regulator Assembly
- Singer Model 66 Upper Tensioner Assembly
The model 66 played a large part in the success of the Singer sewing machine company. It sold millions of units and was the first machine to to use the still common class 66 bobbin. The model 66 is also the foundation for the 3/4 sized model 99 and later the model 185 which was just a more modern looking 3/4 sized 66.
The International Sewing Machine Collectors’ Society ‘ISMACS’ website has a lot of good information including user manuals for the Singer model 66.
