Collard and Collard Ampico
By Robin Pratt
Hello Brian,
Amazing!!!!! I also have a Collard and Collard AMPICO in an upright.
It is a honey of a piano and everyone who hears it can't believe it and many want it. It is not for sale. It has the original finish and hammers which I hate to replace as they are clean and like new. I have sanded and voiced them, but ultimately will have to replace them. The player unit is totally rebuilt (including valves), but the electric motor needs attention (rattle in the bushings) and the tranmission frame was fine but is now not fine. I will be getting a beautiful bronze frame from Bob Streicher who machine these and other player items BEAUTIFULLY! They are about $40. each.
You probably already know that I am the Publisher/Editor for AMICA and am also a rebuilder/restorer. I just found a beautiful John Broadwood, London, AMPICO grand for a friend here in Sandusky, OHio, where I live. It is also original and a beauty. Needs total rebuilding. Do you need AMPICO rolls???
I have my own recutting business and will send you a list of the second series if you wish. They were a huge success and met with rave reviews, if I can say so myself. I might even put the list on line to send to those who wish it.
I would do the valves and also the piano action most importantly!!!!
The piano action needs the attention first and then the player. Don't skimp...that way you only have to take it apart ONCE. Penny wise and pound foolish. I have learned this over the years.
Anyway., glad to know that there are/is at least ONE other Collard and Collard in the world besides mine. IT is a 1926, perfect keytops, restrung (made a BIG difference!) and a delight to hear as I said. Would love to come and hear yours sometime.
Thanks!
Robin Pratt
515 Scott Street
Sandusky, Ohio
44870-3736
1-419-626-1903 |
(Message sent Tue 29 Aug 1995, 15:24:42 GMT, from time zone GMT-0400.) |
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