Your opinion please for this Bosendorfer

[septentryon]

Hi all,

I would like to buy a Bosendorfer (Strauss model 190) from 1895 for 4800 €
It seems in a good condition but I cannot garantee the material used.
The seller says there is nothing to change (of course   )
Do you think I risk a lot for this price ?

thanks

[chick98]

I think most people will agree that a Bosendorfer from that era could be a treasure ... or a nightmare! Certainly, Bosendorfer was producing magnificent instruments at that time. Nonetheless, there are several caveats and they all center around the present condition of the piano.

You will want to know the condition of the Soundboard, Brass Harp, Bridge, Strings and, equally important, the Action. In fact, you will want to know which type of Action the piano has; many built at that time had a Viennese Action, much lighter than a modern grand. I own a Chickering from that era, larger than the Bosey 225 and with the traditional Yacht Tail design; it has a light Edwin Brown Action that is a joy to play because of its responsiveness. "Touch" is a matter of opinion and if you like the way it feels nothing else matters ... except the Action's condition. They can be costly to repair and very costly to replace.

Though the price of this piano is appealing, rebuilding can be extremely expensive; thus, your "buy in" price must be low enough to afford required repairs/rebuilding. One important factor is the state of the current economy: People are not buying pianos. It doesn't matter whether they are new or used; people are not lining up to buy pianos. This is definitely a buyer's market and the longer sellers must await a sale the lower they are willing to negotiate. Don't be afraid to haggle over price!

Unless you are very experienced, I suggest you hire a technician to evaluate the instrument and adivse you what would be necessary to bring it into the condition you desire.

Lastly, consider moving costs; a reliable mover isn't cheap and you don't want to unpack kindling instead of a piano. So, hire a GOOD mover!

Good Luck ... Bosendorfers are magnificent pianos!

[silverwoodpianos]

The best move you could make on this one is to hire a local technician of your choice by referral or other means; preferably one who does restorative work.

 This instrument will require an inspection up close and personal.........5K is a lot to pay for an instrument of this age, Bosendorfer notwithstanding.   Grand pianos have more than 8000 moving parts. No-one will be able to determine the condition of these parts without looking at them.