I can't say that would be the most efficient means of forced savings or slight profit. Even just banking your money might yield 1-2% and all you have to do is deposit the money. If you were asking is it worth it from a personal view point, because you always wanted an old B, love the tone or what ever else about old B's. Then ya it's worth it.But then much depends on your personal outlook and market place as well. It could be a total bomb or it could make perfect sense. Do some research in your area but pianos that old that cost too much are hard to unload generally. Unless it's some special instrument.
If you think of a piano as an investment ... stop, turn around, and go the other way.The best pianos (and a fully restored 19th century B might qualify) might keep up with inflation. But that's hardly a good investment.
I'm not trying to be confrontational here, but I very much beg to differ. My first Steinway was an original 1917 O that still played and held a tune very well. I put no money into it other than a tuning and a little bit of regulation work. I loved it and this piano was my favorite thing I have ever owned. I bought this for $5k in 2006, I sold it in 2009 for $12k. That's a 140% return on investment. A little better than a savings account.
My main question is, were the early Steinway's still great instruments? Or am I better staying with my 1928 M and rebuilding that at some point?