Violins produce one of the most authentic sounds among musical instruments. There is also great value in instruments that were hand crafted and meticulously done by passionate craftsmen. Before buying a vintage violin you need to ascertain that it is actually what the seller is claiming it to be. But how can you separate a classical instrument from an ordinary one?
Check the label or name of the manufacturer or craftsman. Among the popular classical craftsmen or labels are Amati, Guarneri and Stainer. Their labels and designs were unique and were used to identify instruments. Should an instrument miss one of these classical labels, it needs to be scrutinized further. In fact, some of these classical violins were produced in limited editions. Some of the editions can be accounted for to the last number.
Read the label on your instrument to identify whether it is genuine. The position to read is the f-hole, through which every instrument has details on the manufacturer. The label must display similarity with the instrument. If the label is new, it could be a sign that you are being duped. It is impossible for an instrument to age yet its label remains intact.
The place of origin or Made in tag will give you an idea. According to the laws before 1914, all imports into US were supposed to include their countries of origin. The labels came with a single name like Czechoslovakia, Italy, Germany, etc. Beyond 1914, there was a requirement to include the word Made in. In 1921, the law demanded that these details be in English. Such details will therefore be a pointer to the dates of manufacture.
The quality of varnish used is a sure hint of the age of your violin. The antique violins were painted in an oil based varnish that never seemed to dry up. This varnish also penetrated deep into the wood preventing it from flaking or chipping. The modern varnish easily chips off because it does not go deep into the wood. This is a perfect indicator of quality.
Seek professional advice when buying a classical violin. There are professionals who appraise instruments with an incredible level of accuracy. If you suspect that your instrument does not fit the description given, invite an expert. They have sold the violins for years or are even professional players who can distinguish its age by the quality of sound produced. In case of doubt, they will direct you for further examination.
The place you buy your violin is an indicator of quality to expect. Are you buying from a recognized supplier or in the black market? Recognized stores are eager to protect their name and business. They also source their violins and other instruments from credible sellers. In case you realize that you have been duped, you can seek recourse considering that the business is duly registered.
Consider the quality of other attachments accompanying the instrument. They include the bow and casing. Check on the quality of string and ensure that your bow is not broken. Check on casing and storage to avoid violins that have been damaged by mites or elements like water.
Check the label or name of the manufacturer or craftsman. Among the popular classical craftsmen or labels are Amati, Guarneri and Stainer. Their labels and designs were unique and were used to identify instruments. Should an instrument miss one of these classical labels, it needs to be scrutinized further. In fact, some of these classical violins were produced in limited editions. Some of the editions can be accounted for to the last number.
Read the label on your instrument to identify whether it is genuine. The position to read is the f-hole, through which every instrument has details on the manufacturer. The label must display similarity with the instrument. If the label is new, it could be a sign that you are being duped. It is impossible for an instrument to age yet its label remains intact.
The place of origin or Made in tag will give you an idea. According to the laws before 1914, all imports into US were supposed to include their countries of origin. The labels came with a single name like Czechoslovakia, Italy, Germany, etc. Beyond 1914, there was a requirement to include the word Made in. In 1921, the law demanded that these details be in English. Such details will therefore be a pointer to the dates of manufacture.
The quality of varnish used is a sure hint of the age of your violin. The antique violins were painted in an oil based varnish that never seemed to dry up. This varnish also penetrated deep into the wood preventing it from flaking or chipping. The modern varnish easily chips off because it does not go deep into the wood. This is a perfect indicator of quality.
Seek professional advice when buying a classical violin. There are professionals who appraise instruments with an incredible level of accuracy. If you suspect that your instrument does not fit the description given, invite an expert. They have sold the violins for years or are even professional players who can distinguish its age by the quality of sound produced. In case of doubt, they will direct you for further examination.
The place you buy your violin is an indicator of quality to expect. Are you buying from a recognized supplier or in the black market? Recognized stores are eager to protect their name and business. They also source their violins and other instruments from credible sellers. In case you realize that you have been duped, you can seek recourse considering that the business is duly registered.
Consider the quality of other attachments accompanying the instrument. They include the bow and casing. Check on the quality of string and ensure that your bow is not broken. Check on casing and storage to avoid violins that have been damaged by mites or elements like water.
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