In my effort to downsize, I have been culling through my stock of sewing machines with an eye to disposing any that don't please me. I put this Anker RZ on the shelf years ago for some reason I couldn't remember and decided to break it out and make a final decision.
The machine had not been used in several years but I fired it up and sewed a test swatch. It sewed beautifully! I oiled it and sewed a larger project and find it to be one of the nicest machines I have ever used. It is smooth, quiet, and strong and sews everything I have put under the presser foot without complaining.
I received my new camera today and am now able to get some good photos and don't have to rely on old cell phones for pictures to post.
It's hard to read the badge but it says "ANKER WORKS BIELEFELD GERMANY".
Like all German sewing machines, it appears to be well-engineered and was probably an expensive machine in its day.
I particularly like the bobbin winder, it is designed like the old Singer winders with a finger that moves back and forth across the bobbin to ensure a smooth, even winding.
I haven't figured out what the pad is below the balance wheel, it is stationary and the only purpose I can imagine it could serve is as a pincushion.
That would keep owners from pinning a piece of fabric to the arm and scratching the paint with pins.
I think this one is a keeper, makes me want to dig out the Haid & Neu and give it a spin!
Ed
