History. Singer's original design was the first practical sewing machine for general domestic use. It incorporated the basic eye-pointed needle and lock stitch, developed by Elias Howe, who won a patent-infringement suit against Singer in 1854.

On the other hand, some heirlooms are difficult to maintain and may be worth letting go — particularly when they sell for as much as $800. Singer sewing machines fall into the latter group. While plenty of antique sewing machines exist, Singers are arguably the most well-known, and as such, are in high demand.