Like many successful 19th century sewing machine models, the Jones "serpentine" had its share of lookalikes.
If the available evidence is to be believed, one such machine emanated from the shores of Canada. Enticingly called "The Empress of India", it was imported into Liverpool, England, just before the manufacturers - Canada Sewing Machine Co. of Hamilton - were bought out by their local competitors, the Wanzer Company, in 1878.
Small variations in casting and mechanics from "Jones" are evident. Perhaps the most striking variation is the vertically-mounted thread tensioner aloft the top arm.
I have not seen a Jones machine with this arrangement to date, however, one edition of Jones instructions illustrates just this!
The most attractive feature the machine exhibits, for today's collectors, would be the decorative brass needle bar plaque, depicting an Indian landscape scene.
Today, this model can be considered rare!
The bottom illustration is taken from an original instruction booklet.

photos - GD Collection.

G.D.
March 99