Vintage Japanese Class 15 Sewing Machine Parts

The Legacy of Singer Clones: A Stitch in Time

In the aftermath of World War II, Japan found itself on the path to recovery. Amidst this rebuilding process, an unexpected gift arrived a set of blueprints for the renowned Singer Model 15 sewing machine. The U.S. government generously shared these plans with Japanese manufacturers, igniting a sewing revolution that would leave a lasting mark on the industry. Japanese companies, including Toyota and Brother, seized the opportunity. They meticulously crafted their own versions of the Singer Model 15, affectionately known as “15 clones.” These machines retained the classic design elements that made the original Singer a household name. The Singer Model 15 itself had left an indelible mark. It introduced the standard needle size (15x1) and the familiar class 15 bobbin design we still use today. Interestingly, the tension mechanism on class 15 machines was positioned on the left side of the machine head, providing an unobstructed view of the needle—a feature appreciated by sewists worldwide.