Krauss Stuttgart, age and value?

[pieter89]

Hi

I want to ascertain the approximate age and value of this upright piano. I live in South Africa and this is a family heirloom.

The make is Krauss Stuttgart - it also says "Specially made for Darter and Sons" and "Plenator D.R.P"
A few numbers: 28293 printed on the left inside; 10768 engraved on right inside; looks like 18 228 in metal on the bottom inside right.

It's been in the family for 3 generations as far as I know, but it wasn't bought new, it was bought from a pianist that smoked (and therefor some of the keys and wood are burnt). I don't have any more info, but if anything else is needed I can try to get some more info.

Can anyone help me?

[keys60]

I can tell you, the action appears to have been rebuilt. I see newish light color wood and new hammers and dampers. The pins look fairly old, yet with a minimum of rust. Quite a lovely piece. The only mention of Krauss I found is Made in West Germany......serial numbers as Sauter from 1958. My guess is the Krauss Co. suffered the affects of WWII as did many German piano manufacturers, meaning much damage, records lost, out of business. Then the Sauter Co. took over the name in the 50's. Just a guess. I'd like to make it a little project to search further and there may be someone else around here with more info.

[keys60]

https://www.pianoworld.com/forum/ubbthreads.php/topics/1789938/E.%20Krauss%20Stuttgart%20Serial%20Num.html

[pieter89]

Thanks! That helps a lot!

Please let me know if you can acquire any more info. We had the hammers, dampers and strings replaced about 5 years ago. The outside (wood etc.) haven't been touched.