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APPRAISALS:
It is difficult, if not
impossible, to price a horn over the telephone or even e-mail with photos. There is no substitute for examining the horn first-hand.
I've looked at (and bought) many a horn which the seller says is in excellent playing condition, but which is rife with non-sealing pads and clunky
key action.
I typically evaluate horns on three criteria:
- Cosmetic condition...how pretty is it?.
- Mechanical condition - Dents, broken or repaired or missing parts, bent bodies? etc.
- Playing condition - Pads sealing well; horn well regulated and key action snappy; intonation good; plays well and easily, top to bottom?
I might be able to
give you a general idea, but to really come close to the value of a horn,
I'll have to see it in person and possibly do some research on it.
If you want a formal appraisal done, and the results written up and signed by me, it will cost $25. Whether for insurance purposes or whatever.
I will say right up front that many horns are "worth" more than the price you might be able to sell them for.
I am personally most interested in so-called vintage
horns...mainly horns from the '40's through the 60's. American,
French, German, Italian, Japanese...and other countries.
BUYING:
To be frank, any horn I buy from you will likely have to be at least
a few hundred dollars under what might be considered retail price. I have to sell the
horn and make some sort of profit. Just like a used car dealer, I buy at a wholesale price and sell at a retail price.
I can't pay the rent and utilities with horns sitting on the shelf.
Also, I assume I will have to do some work on each and every horn I buy.
I have folks tell me that such and so horn is listed for $xxx dollars on eBay, but that doesn't make much difference to me.
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