It was in 1868 that the first "Lion" model, a Registered Design, was introduced by Kimball & Morton. It uses a simple transverse shuttle lockstitch mechanism. The novelty is that the top section of the machine is modelled as a lion. The needle would originally have been hidden when not in use behind a pair of removable front legs. The original treadle design is of cast metal with a coat of arms between eagle and lion supporters with the motto "Strength and Speed". This "Lion" is unfortunately missing its front left door and front paws.

In 1867 Kimball & Morton was established as a sewing machine manufacturer by Alonzo Kimball and John Morton. Kimball had been the manager of the I. M. Singer & Co. branch office at 65 Buchanan Street, Glasgow. During this period he employed John Morton as a travelling salesman for England, where he established an I. M. Singer & Co branch office in Liverpool. Kimball subsequently managed the I. M. Singer & Co office at 7 Maxwelton Place, Paisley Road, Glasgow from 1861–5. Kimball registered patents under his own name whilst working for I. M. Singer & Co.

In 1873 the "Lion" was granted patent GB 2.227 dated June 27, 1873.

In 1876 at the American Centennial Exhibition of Philadelphia, the "Lion" was exhibited where it was the only British-made sewing machine to win a medal.