The sewing machine highlights in our exhibition
PEUGOT NO. 1 (ROUND)
1878, France
With its attractive models, the house of Peugeot is without doubt one of the most important French manufacturers of sewing machines.
BALTHASAR KREMS
Mayen/Rhineland, circa 1800 (reproduction)
The first working sewing machine in Germany, whose reliability is demonstrated by a machine that still exists to this day, is the Kranz sewing machine made by Balthasar Krems from Mayen in the Eifel Region.
OPEL NO. 1
1863, Germany
Opel’s first customer was master tailor Hummel from Rüsselsheim. He used the machine for more than 40 years, which speaks to its high quality.
Sewing machine in commemoration of the end of the American Civil War (Wheeler & Wilson)
1866, USA
The centre of the lid features a very fine, detailed carving of the American national symbol, the bald eagle. The oak branch to the left of the eagle symbolises power and strength. To the right, the laurel branch stands for victory.
The interior of the lid features a wood inlay of the then coat of arms of the United States of America, with the inscription ‘E PLURIBUS UNUM’ and the initials of the manufacturer W. & W. Mfg. Co. underneath. The cabinet is opened via two round sliding doors. The right door portrays occupations, such as farmer, merchant, carpenter, mechanic, tradesman and sailor. The military is displayed on the left, including the job of fusilier, flag bearer, pikeman, cannoneer, cavalryman and bugler. The entire head of the machine is inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Here once again, the American national symbol, the bald eagle, is depicted.
The sewing arms, gripper, throat plate and screws are gold plated. The machine was primarily used by the company as a display model. This is certainly why the machine is still in such excellent condition to this day.
