Overlocker, serger.
Rebranded around the world, also known as:
Hobby lock, Riccar, Mammy lock, Portalock.
In some places I see the spelling as Janome Lock and in other places it is Janomelock (all one word).
Possibly circa 1984. Made in Japan.
Also sold as Pfaff Hobby lock HL-603.
This is the three thread version. I have a four thread version the Janomelock JL-634D, click here.
Research has shown me that it is very hard to pinpoint the factory that made this machine, but speaking to other overlocker collectors, it is believed that these machines came from the JUKI factory.
This particular machine was found in “brand new” condition. Still in original box with all its parts and accessories. Locked away for nearly 40 years.
Unlike the 4 thread JL-634D, this is not a differential feed. It is a basic 3 thread, which has a beautiful stitch (see last picture below) and is nearly an all-metal overlocker. Advertised originally as “1 needle 3 thread overlock sewing machine. Industrial sewing machine efficiency”.
The manual / instruction book for this machine is here on my google drive for free download. Further down this page you will also see the original flyer for the machine with a handwritten price of $499 AUD, which is about $1620 AUD in 2021.
First stitches
Cleaned (not that it needed more than a wipe over), oiled and threaded. Tension adjusted.
Tested the stitch length and now back in its box. I can’t bring myself to use this on a day-to-day basis, it has survived pristine for nearly 40 years. A collectible of the future?
Thank you so very much for posting this lovely article … a wealth of information, opens up an entire world. How wonderful! So very helpful :-)
I am so very glad you found this page helpful. Enjoy your new/old machine.
How do I get the thread through the knife?
Im sorry, but I am unsure of what your question is. Threading the machine is quite complex and if you don’t know how, you need to follow the manual step by step.
I’m finding it almost impossible to get any repplacement needles for my JL603A. Would you have any available please
Hi Geraldine, I am afraid I don’t sell accessories or needles. Depending on where you may want to do a search for DCx1 needles. They may be described as serger needles, these are the round shank needles that fit the JL603A. If you are in Australia, i have found them at spotlight for $7 for a pack of 4, they are listed as “Klasse 170B 80/12 Overlocker Machine Needle Silver 80/12” Hope this helps. cheers Patricia