If your sewing machine does not have a model number, but has a serial number similar in location to the image above, use the images below to help identify the sewing machine model number. The Singer 99k sewing machine is small in size measuring only 12-1/2' wide, this image shows an early version the 99K (99K21 - 26) made between 1924 to 1954. The serial number 973011 dates to late 1901 or early 1902. Davis dating records do not exist and this estimate is from original warranty certificates. Davis started making machines for Sears right around 1900 and on a much more limited scale until the late Teens or early Twenties. Davis went belly up in 1924 due to bankruptcy.
There is often confusion over Singer serial numbers. Despite what you may read elsewhere, in reality there are NO records of the machines ‘actually made’. What there are, is some estimated production figures by year up to 1900, and then after that some 'batch allocation records' for just the factories in Elizabethport and Kilbowie. There are is no information at all for any of the many other factories.
Although the batch allocation records after 1900 are an excellent resource as a starting point for further checking, they can't be relied upon and should only be used with caution. Because they have so many errors, and because they result in so much confusion and mis-information, we have chosen not to publish the complete list of these. They are though inluded for certain individual classes of machine, where we have been able to validate them to some extent.
Vintage Singer Sewing Machine Serial Number
For most machines before the 1950's, the serial number was located on top of the bed at the front right corner. Later models had it stamped on a raised pad underneath the bed, around the edge somewhere.
Sewing Machine Serial Number Database
IMPORTANT NOTE - The machine serial number is NOT stamped on the motor. That is a serial number referring ONLY to the motor itself.