Expertise
Appraising string instruments, particularly violins, requires specialized knowledge and experience.
Our company boasts over 40 years of experience as a string instrument specialty store, and we have an extensive data archive of over 30,000 old string instruments. This archive includes information and photographs of more than 5,000 old violins from William Moennig & Son, once the largest musical instrument dealer in the United States.
Utilizing this rich database and our extensive experience, we accurately assess the true value of instruments.
Our appraisals consider various factors such as the maker, period of creation, materials used, and condition, and are based on the current world market prices.
Appraisal Price
Appraisal Process
1.
Please make a reservation via phone or email.
We may not always accommodate your preferred date and time.
2.
Bring your instrument and bow at the scheduled time.
3.
For an appraisal, we will keep the instrument and bow for up to a week to take photos.
4.
The certificate will be issued within a week after returning the instrument or bow (mail delivery available).
During the appraisal, it is necessary to handle the instrument
directly and conduct a more detailed examination.
Issuance of Instrument Insurance Valuation Certificate
Our company is recognized globally as a unique string instrument dealer by major world insurance companies and domestic government agencies.
We conduct assessments of your instruments and bows and create insurance valuation certificates to be submitted to insurance companies.
Issuance Fee
Instrument valuation fee including photo charges for two images: 8,360 JPY
* The above instrument valuation fee is calculated based on the appraisal value determined by our assessment.
Instrument Valuation Amount
- Below 5 million JPY:
- 27,500 JPY
- 5 million to below 10 million JPY:
- 55,000 JPY
- 10 million to below 20 million JPY:
- 66,000 JPY
- 20 million JPY and above:
- 0.3% of the appraisal value + tax
[Example Cost for Insurance Valuation Certificate Issuance]
For an instrument valued at 8 million JPY:
55,000 JPY + 8,360 JPY = Total 63,360 JPY
Necessity of Appraisal
With the growing demand for high-value instruments, there is an increasing need for reliable appraisals to determine fair transaction prices.
Our company offers various approaches to ensure customer satisfaction, including long-standing relationships with international dealers and appraisers, and the use of Dendrochronology (tree-ring dating), a scientific method of analysis (paid service).
Details Included in Our Appraisal Certificates
・Instrument name
・Era
・Country, city, or region of production
・Individual characteristics of different parts including the front and back plates
・Size
・Condition
・Photos (front, back, scroll)
etc.
FAQ
Q1
I live far away; can you appraise just from photos?
A1
You can send images of the front, back, and label of the instrument for preliminary advice, but a physical examination is generally necessary.
Q2
Can I bring in my instrument for a one-day appraisal, or do I need to leave it with you?
A2
In most cases, verbal appraisals can be given on the spot. For insurance valuations, we require about 30 minutes to take photographs for the certificate.
Q3
How long does it typically take to receive the appraisal certificate?
A3
If we take photos for the certificate on-site, it generally can be issued within a week.
