Valuation

[Richard Moody]

Is this a grand or upright?   If it is a small upright called a
"top loader" it is rare.   San Diego should be a good market area
for Ampico's.   Assuming it is a grand then you should find out
if it is an Ampico "A" or a "B", and if it is not worth $5,000 as
an A  I would say the market is down.

There is a society of collectors of automatic musical instruments
called AMICA.   I am sure there is a chapter in SD, so find out
how to get in touch and let them know it is for sale. ---ric m




----- Original Message -----
From: Paul McCloud <pmc333@earthlink.net>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: Saturday, August 24, 2002 11:42 AM
Subject: Valuation


> Gentlemen/Ladies:
>     I would like some help with making a value estimate.  The
piano is a
> J&C Fischer,  Serial # 15260 (1926) and has an Ampico reproducer
on
> board.  The player works, but could use a little alignment.
I've never
> seen such a plumbing arrangement under a piano before.  A motor
the size
> of a washing machine motor drives a belt and pulley maybe 14" in
> diameter!
>     Anyway, the piano itself is in fair condition.  Bridges and
> soundboard look good, no cracks.  Has a good singing tone
throughout.
> Was re-whatevered in 1978 with new keytops.  I don't know if it
was
> restrung, but the strings look crusty.  Bass is ok, little tubby
but
> sounds good anyway.  Hammers are extremely hard, like rocks.
Needs some
> regulation, little or no aftertouch in places, etc.  Case needs
> refinishing.
>     My boss told me it might be worth $2500. without the player.
I
> don't know anything about the player, how much it might add
(subtract?)
> from the value.  Customer wants to know how much to ask for it
to sell.
> I'd appreciate any comments.  Thank you,
>     Paul McCloud
>     San Diego
>
> --
> mailto:pmc333@earthlink.net
>
>