PFAFF 210
The far-oriental west-German
If you strip away the black faceplate and look carefully at the overall body shapes and the hardware, you’ll recognise the features of a japan-made machine, which this very much is. Apart from the black-and-white design and the typical PFAFF feed dial and reverse lever, everything else is shared with the Jukis and Janomes of the era. This was perhaps a survival move or just a partnership that ended up expanding to european markets. In any case, this model uses a familiar brand name to lend “german engineering” credibility to a Japanese machine, which might otherwise have had more difficulty convincing customers of its qualities.
This particular model came equipped to use both a treadle and an electric motor, making it easy to switch between the two, and also enabling various sale configurations.
Also included is the ability to use stitch cams, and this machine came supplied with 10 various utility and decorative stitches. The machine itself includes the blind stitch and a tricot stitch, along with zigzag, not requiring the use of cams. It was the top of its line in an economic range.
Although some plastic is present, all main gears are still made of metal (likely an alloy) and the hook gears are encased in a grease box.
This machine has a special significance to me: i grew up with it, as it was my mother’s machine. Its clean and sober aesthetics no doubt influenced my future taste and preferences. This specific unit is a “twin” of my mother’s machine, bought by her sister, my aunt. It had been rotting in an abandoned house for years. I recovered it, cleaned it from the inside out, repainted it in a lovely off-white pearl tone, and refurbished every bit. It is now fresh, thoroughly clean, tuned and ready for another lifetime of service.
Accessories include:
• 10 stitch cams
• Original illustrated user manual
• Original bobbins
ID
| Maker | Janome |
| Brand | PFAFF |
| Model | 210 |
| Year | |
| Serial number | |
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacture | Japan |
| Provenance | Portugal |
| Status | Private collection |
SPECS
| Voltage | AC 220 V |
| Bed type | Flatbed |
| Bed extension | No |
| Feet/shank type | Low shank |
| Foot pressure adjustment | No |
| Bobbin type | Class 15 |
| Hook/race position | Vertical |
| Hook movement | Reciprocating |
| Bobbin winder | Yes |
| Spool pins | 2 |
| Bulb type | |
| Original foot control | No |
| Current foot control | New, plastic |
| Dimensions | |
| Weight |
FEATURES
| Zigzag | Yes, variable |
| Reverse type | Momentary |
| Needle position control | Yes |
| Stitch length limiter | No |
| Stitch width limiter | No |
| Utility stitches | Yes, 2 included |
| Decorative stitches | Yes, with accessories |
| Stretch stitches | Yes, 1 included |
| Auto-reverse stitches | No |
| Double needle provisions | |
| Drop feed | Yes, 2 step |
ACCESSORIES
| Presser feet | Various, standard |
| Straight stitch needle plate | No |
| Feed dogs cover plate | Not required |
DOCUMENTS
| User manual | Download PDF: |
| Service manual | Download PDF: |