Thank you for the replies everyone! Very informative. I'm just getting started learning about these marvelous machines, it really helps to hear the opinions of aficionados to help sort out who's who in the zoo.
So it seems clear that the consensus amongst most enthusiasts, at least in North America, is that the GM Frigidaire 1-18's are overall the best and most impressive classic washer. Funny thing is that I don't recall ever seeing one of these units during my childhood. And I'm certainly old enough to have seen one.
Although I have to say, in my personal opinion, at least for the 1970's 1-18s I've seen, they're definitely not the most elegant looking washers. They are cool and quirky looking in an old-school GM looking way. But they do not have the clean beauty and elegant lines that some of the others have. Still, functionality and superior performance has a beauty all its own. Another thing that might concern me is that the pumping agitation cycles seems to be quite loud (from what I've seen on youtube videos). My washing machine is upstairs near the bedroom. Are these things "hammer time" washers?
Another question I have about 1-18s: I see they were made back in the early 1960's too. The styling looks a lot better on a 1963 I saw. I really like the styling of 60's cars and it seems the appliances of the times took their cues from automobiles. Any thoughts on the best looking 1-18 with the most classic/clean styling?
And what about the Lady Kenmores? I have seen a resto of a late 50's model on a website, which really is a pretty machine. What is the prettiest Lady Kenmore in that sleek push buttonish/chrome knob 1960's look? I love the look of cars and women's styles from that era, so I think I'm narrowing down my favorite appliances to that same same era. People seem to rank these washers in the top three. Which one from the 60's-70's is the prettiest and also has great features and performance?
So far I really like the look of those push button and chrome knob Maytags. Really clean and elegant and with superior quality. I really like the design of the lighted panel and the clean, uncluttered design. Classic, clean Americana. VERY nice.
But then these 1-18's are intriguing because of their stellar reputation. Plus although the later models are somewhat visually challenged, maybe the earlier 60's models have looks and performance? Need to learn more about those models.
Thanks again for the great responses!
