Why an Antique Cello?

We are probably a bit bias (okay we are definitely a bit bias), but here are some reasons why we think you might choose an antique cello and bow:

  • Antique cellos & bows generally hold their value and might even increase in value during your ownership (see the section about our trade-in, buy-back and consignment). A recent study based on global auction data, concluded that; ‘fine stringed instruments offer a steady annual increase in real returns between 3.7-6.9%, with a dramatic increase in value since the 1980s. Over the past forty years, many instruments in the top tier have climbed in value, up to 12%, with little downside or volatility.’*

  • Modern factory instruments generally don’t hold their value well and can be difficult to sell. Most used lower quality instruments end up in a music store’s rental pool.

  • Antique cellos can be beautiful objects of art and display. They can be great conversation pieces when a little is known about their provenance (where, when and who made it?)

  • Like fine wine, wooden instruments can improve with age. Most are constructed from tone woods that had been left to season a number of years before construction had even started and the changes in the wood experienced over the instrument’s lifetime will bring out its potential. There is a reason why many of the world’s finest musicians play antique instruments.

  • The quality of wood used regularly in an antique instrument is very hard to get nowadays and very expensive. The starting price for a good bench-made new cello from a decent maker with decent woods & setup would be in the region of $20,000 US.

  • By investing in an antique instrument, you are supporting & preserving a luthier tradition dating back to the 16th century.

* Investigating The Potential of Investing in Fine Stringed Instruments as as Alternative Investment Asset - Dr. Angela Ortiz Muñoz

Our Contemporary cellos:

  • We carry a curated selection of used better instruments that don’t qualify as an antique (over 100 years old). These are often bench-made cellos and bows from skilled English and North American makers and quality German and French factory instruments. They are usually in great condition and can offer exceptional value.