Viking Husqvarna Sapphire 850

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Viking Husqvarna Sapphire 850

by Debbie Espinoza
(Salem, OR)

I am about in tears tonight. I bought my Sapphire 850 a year ago and it has given me problems the entire year!

I've had it in the shop at least six times. They put in a "new motor head" and I still have had issues with it. The tension goes wacko constantly.

I spent over $1400.00 on this machine and I'm sooooo sorry. I should have bought a Bernina. My mom's Bernia has worked like a charm since 1960!

I took my Sapphire 850 back yesterday and told them how totally unhappy I am with it. They gave me a new one that had only been used on the floor as a demo model for a couple of weeks.

Tonight while sewing with it there was a "clunk" and there went the tension again. I've messed with it for an hour now and can't get the tension fixed. I give UP!

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Viking Husqvarna Sapphire 850

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Mar 25, 2009
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Pfaff and Viking - DO NOT BUY
by: randy

I am so sorry you are having problems and that even with a replacement there is no improvement. The problem is these machines are made in China and poorly made at that. My room mate had two Viking machines, a C20 and a 183. Both went in because they did not work. The 183 did not work out of the box or essentially DOA. The C20 with two previous servicings was now dead only after about 9 months of use. They said that there was too much oil on the bobbin and that it would catch fire. Like i said they are poorly made. It is a good thing he still has the manual Brother machine as it was all he had since his more expensive machines FAILED. So he paid for two machines and sent both in one only a few days after the other now comes back with only one machine. He got no replacements not even for the DOA 183 model, and the C20 a known problem machine, with over $300 thrown away and no trade in or help from Viking. Just for your information these were purchased from Joann's Fabric, and not supported by them or the parent company.

I talked with a salesman from Quality Sewing and Vacuum Center, who told me that basically any machine under $500 was going to be made in China and likely of poor quality and reliabilty. I do know that there are some excellent Brother machines that are highly rated for around the $350 price range. There are exceptions and there are some excellent machines without having to fight congress and supportless companies that do not stand behind there poor quality machines.

I am beginning to think i should go into the sewing repair business as there are too many poorly made machines.

Respectfully,
randy

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Mar 25, 2009
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Submitted by: randy

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Comment
I am so sorry you are having problems and that even with a replacement there is no improvement. The problem is these machines are made in China and poorly made at that. My room mate had two Viking machines, a C20 and a 183. Both went in because they did not work. The 183 did not work out of the box or essentially DOA. The C20 with two previous servicings was now dead only after about 9 months of use. They said that there was too much oil on the bobbin and that it would catch fire. Like i said they are poorly made. It is a good thing he still has the manual Brother machine as it was all he had since his more expensive machines FAILED. So he paid for two machines and sent both in one only a few days after the other now comes back with only one machine. He got no replacements not even for the DOA 183 model, and the C20 a known problem machine, with over $300 thrown away and no trade in or help from Viking. Just for your information these were purchased from Joann's Fabric, and not supported by them or the parent company. I talked with a salesman from Quality Sewing and Vacuum Center, who told me that basically any machine under $500 was going to be made in China and likely of poor quality and reliabilty. I do know that there are some excellent Brother machines that are highly rated for around the $350 price range. There are exceptions and there are some excellent machines without having to fight congress and supportless companies that do not stand behind there poor quality machines. I am beginning to think i should go into the sewing repair business as there are too many poorly made machines. Respectfully, randy

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Mar 25, 2009
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viking husqvarna sapphire 850 trading standards
by: helena llewellyn

i have heard that husqvarna and pfaff are now one company. the two 2170's i had (both rubbish by the way) the machines are made in czech republic and china and then they charge £2995 for them. i am in a legal fight with the dealer about getting my money back i contacted trading standards to help and i will get my money back. these firms are taking the piss. first machine they sent me was DOA and had to be replaced straight away and i had to fight for that. second machine was full of other problems. what shit. i bought a husqvarna platinum 770 ten years ago and i must say it has never seen a mechanic and never had a fault or problem. i have done so much work on it and i love it, but i wouldn't buy a husqvarna now and it is going to be very difficult for me when my money is returned to pick another one. get on to your trading standards and consumer group and fight for your money. best of luck and post on how you get on, as i think we should stick together with one voice to be heard with these nasty firms.

Apr 12, 2009
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Viking 850 - Tension Problems
by: Anonymous

I bought this machine three days ago and am ready to throw it out the window. If I have to rethread this machine one more time due to the thread breaking regardless of the tension setting I will scream. I can't wait for the store to open tomorrow so that I can return it.

Jun 07, 2009
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Viking Machines
by: TexYank

Not sure where everyone gets their information, but years ago when I bought my Viking (same machine I still use over 35 yrs later!), they were FULLY ASSEMBLED in the USA! Some of the parts were from overseas yes, but assembled here in the USA. Again, I haven't had the bad situations some of you have, but know all you have to do is find a Viking dealer and they can either 1: do the repair(s) themselves 2: can send machine off to have repaired (and most will give loaner) or 3: if new machine, will just trade it out. No dealer wants an unhappy customer! And if your particular dealer doesn't seem to care, then go over his head to the main office in Green Bay, Wisconsin! And believe me, they care! I was fortunate many years ago to attend a Viking school and loved it. The higher ups are in this business for a reason - and that's to keep customers and gain new ones. I know the true worth of these machines and it sickens me to hear of these situations. PLEASE, contact Husqvarna direct and let them know the issues. Give them a chance to help you before you spend money on a less worthy machine.

Jun 25, 2009
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Does Husqvarna really care?
by: Anonymous

In reply to TexYank's comments--I have contacted Husqvarna-Viking several times and they haven't been very helpful or seem to show that they care for their business. I had an Emerald 183 which had numerous problems which I tried to resolve for a year finally traded up to a Sapphire 850 and an having problems with the tension. After having a letter go unanswered for 2 or 3 months, regarding the Emerald 183, I finally received a form letter saying that I should contact dealer or send the machine the HV--no personal communication at all. Who wants to send their machine away for who knows how long--I bought the machine so that I could sew.
I am very dissatisfied and am seriously considering another make of machine even though it may no have some of the the features I want.

Aug 09, 2009
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SE peformance
by: Dee

I bought an SE two years ago and have owned Husqvarna machines for nearly 40 years. From the outset the SE was unsatisfactory and was finally replaced by a reconditioned model a move I wasn't very happy with. The replacement machine has exactly the same problems which would indicate that they are inherent in this model. Considering the price of this machine, $9,000.00+ it is simply not good enough. I intend now to fight for a refund of the full purchase price as I'm fed up with ruining items, constantly having to rethread the machine, the thread cutters not working, the noise, vibration, generally poor performance and the inconsistent reading between computer and machine when embroidering. The quality of the the embroidery is also very inconsistent. This is not what I expect from Husqvarna and the company itself hasn't been exactly helpful, wanting to blame me for the machine's problems. I am sad to say my association with this company is close to being at an end!

Aug 11, 2009
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viking husqvarna sapphire 850
by: helena llewellyn south wales uk

hiya. pfaff is the same. customer service is a joke run by men who obviously know nothing about us girls who sew. everything is too much trouble for them and they choose to ignore you. i played holy hell and got a result. my machine (2170) is working fine at the moment. i threatend to sue pfaff and dealer and i got trading standards in to help me as from new the machine was problem, problem, problem. all silly things like the knives jamming,cotton snapping (this was a clot in the tension discs. i call this tweaking a new machine. i have a 10 year warranty on it. these machines need this as they are so technical. good luck with your complaints keep on to them. i threatened to go to germany with my machine to the factory and see the boss. and i would have i was that mad with the sods. helena

Aug 28, 2009
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where things are made
by: justathought

Problems in a sewing machine would be mostly the result of poor engineering/design rather than the manufacturers. Very few electronics of any kind are engineered, sourced and manufactured in the same country... so please don't blame 'made in china' or 'made in czech republic' - most of our designer clothes and fine sewing products are made in these places. Chances are bernina, pfaff, viking, elna--all the European-engineered machines that have a certain "cache" to their name--have at least some or if not all of their manufacturing done in China. The Husqvarna Viking company is based in Sweden--perhaps one should write to their headquarters.

VSM Group AB
HEAD OFFICE Sweden
561 84 Huskvarna
Phone: +46 36 14 60 00 (switchboard)
Fax: +46 36 14 60 95

Sep 01, 2009
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husqvarna 850
by: helena llewellyn south wales uk

you can writa phone email do what you like nobody takes no notice of you. i bombarded pfaff with emails for ages until somebody actually got up of his fat arse and answered me. only when i threatened court action. they are all a load of bollocks. happy to have the money but not so happy to come up with the goods. some people are quiet and let them get away with it. i'm not quiet and they didn't get away with it. now my pfaff 2170 works fine. so if your'e thinking of writing to them be prepared for a long write. regards helena

Sep 29, 2009
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tensions and crunching noise
by: Anonymous

I work for multiple dealerships, and some husqvarna and pfaff machines can have issues with tensions and noise in the sewing head- bobbin case area. Have your serviceman check hook to needle distance also a thin amount of lubrication on the bottom of the bobbin case and the center of the hook can cut down on static electricity. Check the hook where the bobbin case rests for scars from needles. Machines with electronic tensions also do better with an extra grounding wire going from the sewinghead to the frame, I have done these things myself and they work 99% of the time. i hope these ideas help Husqvarna and Pfaff owners they really are quality machines.

Sep 30, 2009
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quality what?
by: helena llewellyn south wales uk

yea, they are quality machines alright, if they worked like they are supposed to. but they don't, that's why we are all complaining. my pfaff 2170 is having tension problems which started a week ago for no reason whatsoever. same cotton is used. i noticed that the bobbin is not winding properly. it stops and starts while winding. tried cotton in various positions on the spool holders to no avail. three grands worth of machine here doing this crap.NOW THAT'S QUALITY FOR YOU. GOOD ON YER PFAFF, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK OF PRODUCING RUBBISH.

Nov 17, 2009
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"Decree Nisi" -'bye-'bye Husqvarna
by: Beverley Markle-Canada

First, I thank everyone for the depth of information in all your comments. I bought a Husqvarna in 1975 in the UK. It was great and lasted me until 4 years ago when the internal plastic used for the manual stitch changer discs finally cracked - a very common problem. I loved that machine. So, I'm now looking to replace it. I've put in 60 hours the last week trying to choose a new Husqvarna model because I'm addicted to its 'fast/slow speed control' for topstitching and no other company makes that feature. I want a machine actually made in Sweden, not Taiwan, etc. The Husqvarna "Sapphire" line is said to be made in Sweden. But the "Sapphire" is getting nothing but horrible reviews centering on tension problems. How a machine made in Sweden can exhibit such a basic problem puzzled me. I may now have the answer.

Today, I spoke with a very helpful rep at AceSewVac in Florida. She says that Singer Sewing Machines (junk) bought out Husqvarna several years ago. (I think this was after HV bought Pfaff.) Thus, some machines are made in Singer factories around the world, to the point that one can't unequivocally say that the "Sapphire" is made in Sweden or in Asia or at whose factory in Asia, etc. One model could be manufactured in any of 3 or more factories. So, I'm in some grief because I'm now divorcing Husqvarna. There's no excuse in 2009 for not making a mechanical thread cutter (!), a bobbin, a light display, and a tension control that actually work! And a rough edge on the machine's body that catches the cloth as you feed it through - unbelievable! I used to own a pre-electic treadle machine from 1903, from Holland (handpainted with "For Queen Alexandria"), that didn't have a problem although it hadn't been serviced in 70 years.

The AceSewVac rep assures me that if I start looking for reviews for the Janome 6600, 6500 (both made in Japan); the 4900, and 3050 (?or 5030), I will not find any negative ones.

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Nov 17, 2009
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Submitted by: Beverley Markle-Canada

Title

Comment
First, I thank everyone for the depth of information in all your comments. I bought a Husqvarna in 1975 in the UK. It was great and lasted me until 4 years ago when the internal plastic used for the manual stitch changer discs finally cracked - a very common problem. I loved that machine. So, I'm now looking to replace it. I've put in 60 hours the last week trying to choose a new Husqvarna model because I'm addicted to its 'fast/slow speed control' for topstitching and no other company makes that feature. I want a machine actually made in Sweden, not Taiwan, etc. The Husqvarna "Sapphire" line is said to be made in Sweden. But the "Sapphire" is getting nothing but horrible reviews centering on tension problems. How a machine made in Sweden can exhibit such a basic problem puzzled me. I may now have the answer. Today, I spoke with a very helpful rep at AceSewVac in Florida. She says that Singer Sewing Machines (junk) bought out Husqvarna several years ago. (I think this was after HV bought Pfaff.) Thus, some machines are made in Singer factories around the world, to the point that one can't unequivocally say that the "Sapphire" is made in Sweden or in Asia or at whose factory in Asia, etc. One model could be manufactured in any of 3 or more factories. So, I'm in some grief because I'm now divorcing Husqvarna. There's no excuse in 2009 for not making a mechanical thread cutter (!), a bobbin, a light display, and a tension control that actually work! And a rough edge on the machine's body that catches the cloth as you feed it through - unbelievable! I used to own a pre-electic treadle machine from 1903, from Holland (handpainted with "For Queen Alexandria"), that didn't have a problem although it hadn't been serviced in 70 years. The AceSewVac rep assures me that if I start looking for reviews for the Janome 6600, 6500 (both made in Japan); the 4900, and 3050 (?or 5030), I will not find any negative ones.

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Nov 17, 2009
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old singers
by: helena llewellyn south wales uk

i also have a singer in the treadle table from 1910 and i love it. i do a lot of quilting on it as it loves thickness and it has never broken down. a little oil and a clean and away we go. luv it.

Dec 19, 2009
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sapphire 850
by: Taylor

Bought the Viking Husqvarna Sapphire 850 machine last year. Thread breaks constantly, tension goes wacko, crunching noise--same as others report. Bought it from JoAnn Fabrics, brand new. It has had problems from the beginning.

I have never written one of these reviews, but this time, I'm ready to be heard. No help from JoAnn that doesn't involve my paying for it. I kept thinking it was something I was doing that was causing this since I am not overly experienced. Had a Kenmore years ago that I never should have sold, then a used Bernina tha was quite reliable. If you are considering buying a machine, DO NOT BUY a Husqvarna. You will be sorry.

Dec 19, 2009
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Thread problems
by: Anonymous

I called the dealer because the top thread keeps breaking and feels like it is getting hung up on something. When the thread gets stuck, I can't pull it forward or backward. I was told I probably did something to the tension and it will need to be sent in for servicing. If it is that sensitive, I have no need for it. I couldn't even wind a bobbin because the thread was completely stuck. I tried adjusting the tension but it made no difference. When I do manage to sew with it, the top thread breaks before I can pull it up to the thread cutter. I have had this machine a few months and hardly used it at all. Guess I won't get those Christmas projects done in time.

Jan 20, 2010
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Saphire 850
by: Crystal

I bought my 850 last year and have been sorry ever since. I never had my Bernina 1130 serviced except for tune-up, never touched the tension adjuster, or broke a thread. It was non-stop problems the minute I opened the box of 850. I was told to skip the first hook when threading to help with thread breaking. That helped but I have big regrets that I didn't buy Janome of Bernina again. The 10 inch bed is the only thing that drew me to the 850.

Jan 29, 2010
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viking sapphire 850 >$1000.00, threader breaks repeatedly, uptake defective
by: Mary

I purchased a Viking sapphire 850. I had it about 1 year and was pretty happy with it until I tried to send it in for routine service. I was told it had to be shipped for maintenance because of the computer and it would take @ 2 weeks plus shipping back and forth.

I sent it and @3wks later it came back. It was returned damaged. Viking said they would fix it and make it a priority, @2+ weeks later comes back still doesn't work, will not sew. This time I am told they are so backed up that they have been told not to even send them. They will call me at the end of the month and let me know when I can bring it in!!!!!

I was also told there were no numbers to call for customer service, they are in Tennesse and the store is not allowed to give out numbers.!?! unbelievable, so I call the store( and find cust serv # online.) customer service and email customer service.

I am told being the 3rd time and my machine was in very good condition as marked by them when they recieved it the first time. They would replace it. Send it in when we receive yours we will send you a replacement. Its been sitting in tennessee with a note to be replaced since Monday for 4 days and I sent it @ week ago. You can now measure my time without my machine in months.

I would strongly suggest anyone with similar issues and poor customer service file an online complaint with consumer affairs and maybe we can get a class action suit going. I would not purchase a Viking again.

Will sell this one cheap when/if I get it back. If you do purchase a Viking BE SURE TO PURCHASE A BACKUP MACHINE. Because you will need it. Maybe Bernina will let me make a commercial. Because thats where I am going. They repair local and have a good service reputation..

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Jan 29, 2010
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Submitted by: Mary

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Comment
I purchased a Viking sapphire 850. I had it about 1 year and was pretty happy with it until I tried to send it in for routine service. I was told it had to be shipped for maintenance because of the computer and it would take @ 2 weeks plus shipping back and forth. I sent it and @3wks later it came back. It was returned damaged. Viking said they would fix it and make it a priority, @2+ weeks later comes back still doesn't work, will not sew. This time I am told they are so backed up that they have been told not to even send them. They will call me at the end of the month and let me know when I can bring it in!!!!! I was also told there were no numbers to call for customer service, they are in Tennesse and the store is not allowed to give out numbers.!?! unbelievable, so I call the store( and find cust serv # online.) customer service and email customer service. I am told being the 3rd time and my machine was in very good condition as marked by them when they recieved it the first time. They would replace it. Send it in when we receive yours we will send you a replacement. Its been sitting in tennessee with a note to be replaced since Monday for 4 days and I sent it @ week ago. You can now measure my time without my machine in months. I would strongly suggest anyone with similar issues and poor customer service file an online complaint with consumer affairs and maybe we can get a class action suit going. I would not purchase a Viking again. Will sell this one cheap when/if I get it back. If you do purchase a Viking BE SURE TO PURCHASE A BACKUP MACHINE. Because you will need it. Maybe Bernina will let me make a commercial. Because thats where I am going. They repair local and have a good service reputation..

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Feb 05, 2010
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Viking Sapphire 850 Sewing Machine
by: Beverley

I brought a Viking Sapphire 850 and loved the machine. I have it regularly serviced by a lovely man in Newcastle, who by the way is a whizz at adjusting the tensions and my machine sews beautifully.

Feb 06, 2010
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Consider Filing a Lemon Law Claim
by: Anonymous

I worked in Lemon Law Litigation. The general rule of thumb on most products is: if it's been brought in at least 3 times within the first 1 1/2 years, it can be replaced or given a 100% refund. Try your local BBB/Better Business Bureau or State Attorney's office - it shouldn't cost you anything and the response is very quick (within 30 days).

Mar 19, 2010
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My Saphire 830 Comment
by: Anonymous

I've had my Viking Husqvarna Saphire 830 for 2 years now and I love it. It has done everything I wanted and I'm still finding out new things. Very pleased. The first machine I haven't had problems with. The only thing I do have is the needle threader. I keep messing up the little wire that goes thru the needle, which is something than be fixed easily.

May 27, 2010
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Sapphire 850
by: Anonymous

I have had my Sapphire 850 for about 8 months. No problems with it...I love it!

Aug 04, 2010
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thank you
by: Anonymous

Was seriously considering the 850 sapphire but after reading these reviews will now look to the Janome - unless you know better....

I have a 3 year old C20 which does not complete the stitches properly. It is going to cost a minimum of £75 to repair, and if the replacement part is not the problem it would be nearer £200 and I only paid £300 in the first place. Does nothing last these days?

Aug 12, 2010
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Husqvarna Sapphire 875
by: Anonymous

How I wish I had read the review of the previous person. I bought the 875 just over a year ago and have also had nothing but trouble with it. The tension is just useless. After a few inches of sewing the bobbin starts to clunk and a huge birds nest of thread is on the back of the fabric. It also happens every time you stop - for example if the bobbin runs out or if the thread snaps (which happens continuously. The shop are very sympathetic and have looked at it and say they can find nothing wrong with it. They suggest it is my thread - so I buy their pre-wound bobbins and their highly expensive thread and the same thing happens. I wish I had never bought it. It is nothing but a useless, expensive heap of junk.
Claire, UK

Aug 17, 2010
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undecided
by: sandie mckee

I was going to buy a 850 that was used twice from a friend, but after reading these reviews, I will not buy it. I once had a viking and I loved it. My Bernina is the best,but I wanted the sapphire for that hand quilted stitch.

Aug 17, 2010
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Aug 18, 2010
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Husqvarna now has a Facebook "Fan" page--good place to contact them
by: Anonymous

If you're on Facebook, I suggest you look for Husqvarna's new "Fan" page. They're plugging the new Ruby machine, and if they won't respond to anyone who calls or writes them directly, I'll bet hearing from lots of angry customers on Facebook--where other potential customers can see--will get some results...

Aug 22, 2010
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Saphire 850
by: Pastora

I bought the Saphire 850 in Utica NY (Hartford Mills) when it first came out. it has been a fantastic machine. I quilt, sew and do many projects on this machine. I sew and repair my husbands denim bib overalls on it. I just finished 3 quilts, piecing and quilting log cabin. I am currantly altering a bridesmaid dress. I will sew evenly on any fabric. I will admit I had some problem learning the automatic threader. I just had it adjusted again and it is working fine now. I was surprise to see so many bad reviews. I have reccomended the machine many times.