I have a Lachenal, serial No. 166946. It has very ornately carved ends, 20 buttons, I reckon it is rosewood, is in a matching wooden box (which has lost one of the six panels from the lid and has no key). Bellows are a tiny bit wheezy, but most of the keys seem to work. It says Steel Reeds and English Make on it.
The other thing I know about it is that my friend brought it back from Australia (or was it New Zealand? I can find out if it matters) so it has had a merry journey round the world once, so far....And in the fabric at the top and bottom of the case, an imprint of a star of david is apparent... is this normal, or is this specific to this one?
I have only just realised that it is not just a peice of old junk (sorry! well I always thought it was a rather lovely little thing! just didn't know quite how lovely til now), and might make someone a very nice instrument. I notice a few accordions on ebay from the same manufacturer and then did a bit of web research, so I have the general history of Lachenal, but I thought this looks like a nice place full of enthusiasts and knowledgable people....
So, would anyone like to tell me more about it? I can post an image if that helps. I suppose I'd like to know if it is a common one, or not, and if it may need restoring at all, and if I can do anything to look after it myself. Anything you think I should know?
thanks very much folks
Bethinderby
