Replies

1. 
   liselaure | Jul 28, 2006 09:17pm | #1

   Hello,

   I live in Switzerland but not in/around Zurich. I can tell you more about stores in Lausanne and Neuchâtel. You can nevertheless try the following which have stores in my part of the country too:

   • Modesa (2 Löwenstrasse. 8001 Zürich, phone 043 497 20 85)
   • Alja (Hofwiesenstrasse 350, 8050 Zürich, phone 044 311 23 40)

   I consider Modesa as having a larger choice and selling better quality fabrics than Alja.

   You should find other addresses in the Swiss yellow pages (http://www.directories.ch/index.aspx?anr=directories&pid=&ans_lng=en&language=en). If you discover one or several great stores, let me know. I sometimes go to Zurich.

   Lise-Laure

   P.S. Enjoy your trip to my country.

2. 
   NancyT | Jul 29, 2006 05:21pm | #2

   Buying a machine there:  as you know the current is different in Europe with 220 being the norm vs our 110.  That means (1) you have to buy a 'non-standard' machine if bringing back to the US to run on 110, (2) you have to run it on an adaptor if you buy 220 and bring it back, or (3) you have to replace the motor to a 110.   I have heard, although don't know for sure, that option (2) is hard on the motor and that it will wear out the motor.  Option (3) is a PITA (pain in the you-know what).  Option 1 will be more expensive in Switzerland as most of their machines will be 220.  Having said all of that, maybe there is a main showroom geared toward making export sales.  And of course, save your receipt to have your duty tax refunded on return to the US.  But you may find that it is just as easy to buy it in the US with a local dealer who will provide support.  I know that when I moved TO Europe, I used my Viking on an adaptor but was leary about using it too much.  Work load took care of that, as I never had any sewing time (although my husband learned to use it - a different story!).  Good luck in your quest - sometimes it is the quest and not the result which provides the fun.

   N