The instrument in all probability would bring less money at resale
than was put into it to buy, move, storage and the restoration. If
eBay is a good reflection, people my generation are collecting those
pez dispensers and "pong" video games and the like. Those older are
generally collecting less. I perceive that few are seriously looking
to buy a vintage player piano at any given time. Virtually all the
rebuilding work I do is on instruments that have sentimental value to
it's owner.
Always get more than one estimate and go with someone who is
knowledgeable, skilled, conscientious and reputable. Don't be afraid
to ask to see their shop or to see their previous work. Insist on an
itemized list of the work to be done.
Is the instrument complete? Is it rebuildable (or re-rebuildable,
as the case may be)? A "full Ampico" is better than an "expression
Ampico." If all checks out good, this Chickering Ampico upright has
big potential, more than maybe 85% of pneumatic players out there.
_Get at least one person to check it out before buying it._
It will take the typical player rebuilder more than one year to finish
an Ampico rebuilding, so that would solve much of the storage problem.
Bill Maguire
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