Abstract: An essentially iron-free linear motor for a sewing device or sewing machine produces and controls the pressure on the material being sewn by means of a drive rod, with a tubular housing, with at least two annular permanent magnets located therein. Each of the magnets has a north pole and a south pole and is magnetized radially, each in a different magnetization direction, and with a coil divided into at least two partial coils wound in opposite directions and each associated with a permanent magnet, whereby the partial coils and the permanent magnets are mutually displaceable, involving drive rod, in a magnetic lock that is effected by the housing, by a core in the form of center piece, and an air gap with the coil. The partial coils are located inside housing and the permanent magnets are located between said coils and the center piece.