60 yr. old Baldwin R appraisal value

[Greg Newell]

I wouldn’t pay more than $500 for it. If that!

 

Greg Newell

Greg's Piano Forté

www.gregspianoforte.com

216-226-3791 (office)

216-470-8634 (mobile)

 

From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf
Of J Patrick Draine
Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2008 5:55 PM
To: Pianotech List
Subject: 60 yr. old Baldwin R appraisal value

 

Hello All,

I've just evaluated & tuned a Baldwin R (5' 8") for a client who is in the
process of liquidating her late mom's estate. Overall it is in fair to poor
condition. 60 years of Northeast (Boston suburbs) climate and very dry
central heating has taken its toll. Attractive mahogany finish, case not
particularly abused over the years. Three long, obvious soundboard cracks
(although no rib separation yet). Tuning pin torque as low as 15"-lbs on a
few notes, most pins comfortably around 40"-lbs (these are detuning
readings; raising tension torque is approximately 60-70 "-lbs). Downbearing
is present. Moderate wear to hammers (given the age), poor regulation. I
tuned it at its average pitch, 45 cents flat. Bass strings' tone flaccid,
overall tone typically choked due to hammer condition & regulation.

So, I'm looking for your thoughts on what numbers I should give as my final
verdict.

For example, if you're rebuilding & selling instruments like this, what
would you consider a reasonable range to acquire a piano like this? How
marketable is a rebuilt small Baldwin grand these days?

What is a reasonable number to give them if they're going to sell it
themselves "as is" via craigslist?

Comments from folks in the Northeast will be especially appreciated. 

Thanks for offering your off the cuff second opinions regarding this
scenario.

Patrick Draine

Billerica MA

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