VALUATIONS

Valuations are carried out by experts who have spent years learning and researching in order to acquire the skills to value instruments and bows. We therefore believe in making a charge for this service and in fact are required to do so by our insurers.

​If we go on to purchase your instrument or bow after the valuation we will refund the cost.

• Quick Ballpark Verbal Valuation in person £40 + VAT (not certified)
• Ballpark Written Valuation by Email £60 + VAT (not certified)
• ​Insurance Valuation Certificate £150 + VAT
• Certificate of Authenticity POA 

NB. We cannot give valuations without seeing the items. You can either make an appointment to have a valuation without consulting us by email (for which you will be charged up front), or submit the information and photos as summarised below in order for us to tell you whether we are able to help or whether it is worth your time to come in. This way, if the instrument or bow are not worth valuing, we can tell you before you make an appointment and pay the fee. 

If you are interested in selling or valuing your instrument, please provide the following

1. Previous certificates, past valuation or appraisal information

However outdated they are, please provide any existing certificates, valuation or appraisal information for your instrument upon submission of the valuation form.

2. Inside label text and photos if possible

Although not always authentic, inner labels are a good place to start when considering an instrument's value. The label will be positioned on the back of the instrument and visible through the front F hole. If your instrument has such a label, please write down the text as accurately as possible and take a photograph of it. Sometimes the writing on old labels is not very clear. If so, please let us know that your transcript is your best guess. 

3. Precise measurements of the back of the instrument

Specific measurements are another indication of whether or not an instrument is by a certain maker. Measure your instrument in millimetres. Please provide:Length of back (please note this is measured diagonally across the back from the left of the back button to an equivalent point the other side of the centre joint at the bottom of the instrument.
​Width of Upper bout. 
Width of Middle bout. 
Width of Lower bout

4. Photographs of your instrument

Please make sure all photos are well lit but without flash, close up and in focus. Place in front of a neutral coloured background, and try to avoid any reflection off the instrument. Provide the following photos:

• Front, without the chin rest. Do not include the neck
• Back, do not include the neck but make sure you include the button.
• Bottom rib, including saddle.
• Side view of the back button.
• Scroll, from the side.

5. Weight (bows only)

For bow valuations, please provide us with its weight so that we can provide an accurate estimate. To weigh your bow, place it on a good quality digital kitchen scale, with the weight balanced across the stick.