Reasonable price tag on a Malmsjö?

[lundin]

Hi,
I´m new to this forum and will start by posting a question in the hope of getting some informed response.
Is there anyone here who is familiar with Malmsjö grand pianos and how much I would expect to pay for one in good condition, made in the late 30's. It's 170cm, black, and according to seller in mint condition.
The guy selling it won't give me a price, says it's up to me, and I'm not shure how much to offer...
Any clues?

/Lundin

[sirpazhan]

Im going to give you some general information.. these extinct pianos are very difficult to price, because there's really no market to gauge it with.  Also, a red flag should raise when a seller says 'mint' condition for an 80 year old piano.  If there has been any rebuilding or refinishing, make sure you get all the paperwork on the work completed.  Try to get access to a piano tech/tuner to evaluate the condition (usually 100$).

no name piano brands (in that size) would probably fetch around 2,500-6,000 depending on the finish and whether they're in good/rebuilt condition -- now, it depends on how much you like the sound, performance and aesthetics of the piano.

I'd start it at 2,500,, maybe go up to 3k (in good condition/even rebuilt - plays nicely), I'd go even lower if I find any problems with it. However if I really like the piano,, I'd go a little more.  But would cap it at 6-7k (7 only if I absolutely fall in love with the damn thing and must have it).

But again, have it checked out,, or search online on 'piano buying guides' - make sure the soundboard is not cracked from the changes in humidity. and if you're planning on seriously playing on this piano,, unless its been rebuilt, it would need a complete overhaul due to age,, the action is probably shot by now, prob need new hammers, maybe strings,, etc.    

[lundin]

Thank you for the reply sirpazhan, much appreciated!
I´m going tomorrow to have a look, feel it, play it and listen to it... and maybe if I like it, try to get an expert to come with me for a second opinion.

I should add that I live in Sweden where these pianos were made, and they are probably the most well known swedish piano manufacturer. On the other hand there are tons of them out there, both bad and really good ones. Bad, or even OK uprights, you can come by for free but I´ve also seen grands selling for 100K kr (approx 14K $), a grand in poor condition around 1400$.

[sirpazhan]

remember,, it can be very expensive if critical components are worn or damaged on a piano.. IE: loose pin-block, or cracked soundboard, {not a hairline, but actually unevenness}.  Those two examples can be seen in a piano of that age,, Sweden is a fairly humid environment, where humidity can reach upwards of 70-90%, so if the piano has fluctuated over 80 years in a warm home.. make sure its checked out.