Bluthner action; "big question"

[Richard Brekne]

Ah... that makes things much more clear.

I would say definatly YES !.. Do the restore, and definatly stick with
your general proceedure as outlined below. The old case will look
wonderfull.

I think you will find that less sophisticated actions then our modern
Erard/Herz variant will perform most satisfactorilly if they are in good
shape (or restored to said shape) and regulated after specs. Not that
many pianists will be in any way hindered by the action. Most because
they are not great pianists and dont really know the difference, some
others because they are great pianists and can make music on whatever
they play.

Besides... these actions werent all that bad performing at all. I have
an older Bluthner overdamper piano that I tune from time to time... it
is to die for.

You might have to sit on it for a bit.... but there is more of a market
for Historical instruments then I think a lot of techs give credit for.

Cheers
RicB

Mark Cramer wrote:
> 
> Whats the general type question here ?
> 
> RicB
> 
> In spare time I rebuild grands for resale. I'm typically looking for
> instruments (not necessarily big name brands) of good original quality, in
> the 6' to 7' range that require total restoration.
> 
> As possible, I attempt to process every instrument the same; hand-rubbed,
> satin-ebony finish, all appearance details restored to appear new, and full
> renovation of the instrument to perform as new.
> 
> The idea being; if a client likes an instrument that's already sold, the
> next one will have a predictably similiar appeal.
> 
> I know we all have different philosophies on restoration... this is mine,
> and I'm very proud of the resulting instruments.
> 
> The question, crass as it may seem, is whether I can gain full return on a
> major restoration of a two-pedal piano with an historic action?
> 
> Those of you who have a "handle" on resale of restorations can probably tell
> me;
> 
> "in your market would this instrument complete, trade similar to a likewise
> restored Mason or Knabe?"
> 
> On the other hand, I really like the modern Bluthners (80's?) we have at
> Banff. My intent, if it were practical, was simply to do a full
> action-replacement (along with full belly-work), such that I wasn't
> handicapping resale potential of the instrument.
> 
> So there you have it:
> 
> 1. If the piano could be resold for top value, I'm willing to look at the
> authentic/historic route.
> 
> 2. If it could easily be modernized (new stack over existing keys/frame for
> instance) I would
> have to look at that... (and deal with your consternation later). :>)
> 
> 3. If neither of the above are true, then I guess I should just buy it and
> Fed-ex it down to Ed.
> 
> As colleagues, you are always most helpful, and I trust your opinions. Now,
> like on the price is right, "do I bid or pass?!"
> 
> thanks,
> 
> Mark Cramer,
> Brandon University
> 
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