This machine was also known by several other names
The Elastic, Shoe Makers Friend and Universal Feed Machine.
For information about the history of the A1 Repairing Machine click on the title above.
All material copyright David G. Best 2002 - 2009 All Rights Reserved.
A1 Repairing Machine
We have for several years sought an example of this machine, but as it was produced for commercial use surviving examples are often in very poor condition. We found this machine at a local major Antiques Fair and it was at the last stand we came to!
Dating to around 1900 it has survived reasonably well despite some adaptations and repairs. The highly ornate stand is in excellent condition with much of the original gold paint still present, although the wooden table has seen better days and has split lengthways in a couple of places. The sewing head shows evidence of use but even so the decal on the hand wheel is largely intact. The arms and other exposed metal work have some surface rust but should clean up reasonably well.
Threading & Oiling of Bradbury's A1 Repairing Machine
The serial number on these machines is either painted on the front hand wheel or stamped on the back of it. The serial number is also repeated under the head of the machine.
INDEX of BRADBURY PHOTOGRAPHS
Click on a Caption