So, the big question here has to do with the quality. But, I understand that when the last Chickering family member at Chickering and Sons died in 1899, the company floundered until being taken over by American Piano in 1908. The larger 1901 grand would have a fuller, richer sound (if the soundboard is good). I'm assuming the soundboard must be good or the restoration in 2007 would have been a waste of money (Don't assume anything.Right!). Of course, the soundboard will need to be checked for a good crown, and the bridges inspected. The 1901 does has new key tops and bushings plus everything done on the 1928. Tonight, I'll be looking at a 1901 Chickering and Sons grand 5' 7" that was fully restored in 2007 for $3000, which is about the same price as the 1928 with shipping added. I still have the option to cancel this deal. Keyboard Carrier can pick it up in about two weeks, so should be in NJ by mid-September. The piano cost $2500, then another $850 to get it to NJ and set up. I can replace those and the key bushings. New key tops are in a box with the piano. The seller doesn't know if the key bushings were replaced, but who would replace the key bushings and not also do the key tops at the same time? So, the bushings likely need replacing. But, new soundboard, pinblock and pins, strings, refinished frame, hammers, action. She passed away before having the key tops replaced. It was owned by a older lady who, over the past few years, had it restored piece-meal.
What was I thinking?!!! Just bought a 1928 Chickering baby grand 5' 3" or 5' 4" from FL (I'm in NJ), almost sight-unseen.
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