Klarinet Archive - Posting 000511.txt from 2003/09

From: "Jim & Joyce (lande@-----.net>
Subj: [kl] Re: Old Buffet value and sale
Date: Thu, 18 Sep 2003 02:04:22 -0400

A few years back I collected eBay prices on Buffet clarinets. There was a
big break between the price for a new instrument and one that had been used,
even if fully restored. A little bit of regression analysis also suggested
that the high bid declined by $5 to $7 per year of age. There is plenty of
uncertainty in this estimate. I had a small sample. I had to make some
subjective assessments about condition. I ignored important variables, such
as the quality of the pictures and writeup.

Watching metal clarinet auctions, I have been struck by how much the bidding
public discounts the value of an overhaul. It appears that a complete
overhaul generally adds about $100 or less to high bids.

Don't count on petigree adding anything to the value. I am willing to bet
that most people who purchase new Buffets could not name any clarinet
players beyond Goodman, Shaw (Ken or Artie -- your pick), etc.

Bottom line: don't expect to get anywhere near what a comparable new horn
would cost -- even your horn plays better than a new big bore pro model.

I hope it ends up with a young rising star.. It would be a shame for it end
up being used for high school marching band and then get tossed when the
pads go bad.

Jim Lande

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