Hamburg S&S tour/price ? for S&S "A"

[Wimblees@aol.com]

In a message dated 96-11-08 10:14:01 EST, you write:

>2)  [ignore if uninterested in $ question] I have the
>opportunity to buy a 1904 (NY) model "A" for $7000.  Details:
>never rebuilt, burled walnut case in excellent condition
>(probably refinished x1) for age, bridges fine, pinning still
>solid, positive bearing, soundboard has crown but at least one
>major separation and several smaller cracks in various states of
>repair (but no buzzing, etc.), pin block so-so, action original
>and so-so, original ivories in excellent condition (no chips) but
>appear thinned down.  Plays well enough now.  Obvious candidate
>for rebuild within next couple years.  Comments on whether this
>sounds like a good value and ballpark (+/- $2000) estimate for
>rebuilding cost from those of you in this field would be greatly
>appreciated as private replies.
>
>Again, thanks to BYU and so many of you masters of this field for
>the education and enlightenment that this list provides.  I
>believe that my technician would also thank you for improving my
>ability to speak his language - but he's not on this list.
>
>Gary Evoniuk
>Durham, NC

Gary:

The price sounds a little high, but then I always look at the piano as a
wholesaler. If you are considering rebuilding the piano in a couple of years,
you have to consider that will cost in the neighborhood of $15,000 - 20,000,
depending on what has to be done, etc. In otherwords, are you willing to
spend $22,000 - $30,000 for a Steinway A, when a new L  can be bought for
$38,000 and a new B for $42,000?

Willem Blees  RPT
St. Louis. MO