Hi, I have a Lachenal concertina and would much appreciate some info/advice on it before I decide what to do with it. I've attached some pictures that, hopefully will give and idea of the condition of the instrument. By way of a description it:
- has 39 keys, some only work in one direction, most play the same note in both directions. From the photos you should be able to see that at some time someone has replaced some of the reeds as there is a mix of steel and brass(?). Some of the steel reeds seem fairly rusty and the whole concertina will need tuning.
- the bellows seem in good condition being pretty clean and I couldn't spot any holes/leaks in the bellows themselves (although some of the keys/pads may not seal properly).
- all of the keys are, I guess, ivory and seem to work ok (although as outlined above the reeds and sealing pads (apols for the incorrect terminology!) need attention)
- the end screws all seem present and correct and the ends of the concertina are, I would guess, rosewood
- the straps are OK, although they don't match and the screws attaching them to the concertina are "workmanlike"!
- I believe the concertina has its original case, although the leather strap and key are missing.
If it is of value I'd probably sell it (or repair then sell it) as it seems a waste to keep it sitting on the shelf even longer than it already has so any advice or info would be much appreciated - for example more details on the type of concertina, age, poss value poss restoration costs and restored value etc (I'm based in the UK if this has any relevance).
Thanks in advance!
Craig