Wooden chest for lock stitch sewing machine, by Jones Sewing Machine Company, Manchester, England, 1879-1909

Jones lock stitch sewing machine, c.1890. William Jones took out his first sewing machine patent in 1859 and founded a company which still manufactures sewing machines. This hand machine was made at Jones' Guide Bridge factory in Lancashire (now Greater Manchester) and is of a type in production from 1879 to 1909. It was produced with a view to export to tropical countries so the unpainted parts were heavily metal-plated to combat rust in humid climates, and it came with its own steel carrying case.