Hikarigo
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| Hagiwara Hikarigo | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Hagiwara |
| Model | Hikarigo |
| Gauge | |
| Type | Manual Flatbed |
| Patterning | |
| Needles | |
| Release Year | 1964 |
| Accessories | |
| Also Known As | |
The Hikarigo (ひかり号 / "Light Express") is a vintage manual flatbed knitting machine manufactured by Hagiwara in Japan during the mid-to-late 1960s.
Brand History[edit]
The machine's name was inspired by the Tokaido Shinkansen "Hikari" (ひかり号) bullet train, which launched in October 1964. During this era, Japanese manufacturers frequently branded their machines "Hikarigo" to evoke speed and modern engineering.
Many surviving units feature a needle bed branded Hikarigo paired with a carriage branded Hagiwara.
Technical Features[edit]
- Gauge: Standard gauge manual metal bed.
- Yarn Feed: Manual-feed design. The machine pre-dates the automated tension masts of later Brother or Silver Reed models, requiring the knitter to manually lay the yarn across the open needle hooks before passing the carriage.
- Patterning: Fully manual needle selection.