Lot 102 - Bechstein (c1913) - | Est. £1,000 - £1,500

An 85-note 6ft Model A grand piano in an ebonised case on square tapered legs.

Condition Report:

LOT 102 – BECHSTEIN MODEL A GRAND

Casework:  Is generally tired but the polish has broken down completely on the bass side.  There are scratches to the top surface, although the top lid is acceptable, as is the fold back part, but there are scratches and there is polish breakdown.  No significant areas of impact damage but there are one or two pieces of missing veneer – one on the rim at the treble end and the legs have got one or two nicks and dings and dents but the most obvious polish deficiency is the bass side where the polish has completely broken down.  One of the supports at the back of the music rest is missing, so whilst the music rest is functional it is only supported by one of the stands that lock in to the toothed affair at the back of the music rest rail.

Frame and Soundboard:  Are good, although the piano does display the beginnings of the crack that the Model A is famous for that we suspect appeared the moment the piano was strung at the factory and is nothing to worry about.  The pins are recent.  This piano has been re-strung at some point in the last 20 or 30 years.  There is a very faint crack in the exposed plank in the upper treble but this is not a cause for concern – the pins are holding in this area.

Keys and Keyboard:  The keyboard is dirty – ivory, but basically in sound condition.  One note in the middle has a crack, so the G above middle C has a crack in it.

Hammers and Action:  The action looks to be good.  The hammers are rather squared and would undoubtedly benefit from a shaping.

General Notes:  This piano is in acceptable condition but needs one or two things doing to it, most notably the case.

This report is based on a cursory examination and is our opinion only.  It does not constitute a guarantee and potential buyers should satisfy themselves about the lot before bidding.

Buyers Premium: 24% incl. VAT

More pictures of this lot will be uploaded on Thursday 8 December.

Specific photographs, videos & condition report are available on request.