60 yr. old Baldwin R appraisal value

[Willem Blees]

Patrick

Unfortunately, this piano?is worth less than $500. And, after your rebuild, including a new finish, block, strings, action, etc, it might fetch $6000, tops.? For what you have to pay for new parts, your time would be better spent working on another piano, and/or going out and tune.
?
Wim


?


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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