Geoff Wooff

A nice thought Alex, but having tried the MacCann and the Hayden/Wikki I cannot see why a 'duet beginner' would want to start on a budget Crane or MacCann other than the availability of real quality vintage instruments when they wanted to upgrade. The Hayden/Wikki is definately the easiest keyboard to learn, IMO, and the only problem has been in the supply of fine quality instruments.

There is a serial number visible, though none too clear, and it looks like 818 perhaps ?

Key Valve and Wrist Straps. Prior to the air button being operated by a "Key" there was a " Slide Valve" a lever that the thumb actuated with a sideways movement (S.V.) .

Yes indeed Stephen, thumb straps from Wim Wakker. I had a pair from Mr. Wakker that were very comfortable but they needed replacing I took them to pieces and copied the construction method. I am very happy with the results. Just order new ones from Concertina connection.

It is on ebay now.

Try www.leboncoin.fr there is a nice looking 34key Jones for sale in the south end of France for €1900.

Thanks for your reply Ciaran. It is looking a little uncertain at the moment. Of course sending goods abroad VAT exempt is the main starting point but how will all this affect incoming goods and part exchanges ? Oh, I don't expect an exact answer and realize this must be a dreadful headache for you guys.

Hello Ciaran, as Ken mentions the thread about the new rules regarding duties and VAT, perhaps you could give us your thoughts especially with regard to cross border sales UK to EU. It has been suggested by someone who has read the new regulations for imports into Ireland that duties and VAT could amount to 33% of the value of the goods!! We can assume a similar burden being imposed by other European countries and going back into the UK.

Indeed Adrian, it has been that way with my customers for many years. Some have come from New Zealand and the USA to collect their new instruments ! I bought a concertina from Australia a few years ago, this century, and there was no duty or other costs involved, though one of my American customers did have problems trying to send an instrument back to me for adjustments.

It all sounds horrific to anyone who might be contemplating buying or selling into the UK. My question today is: What is the situation when someone living outside the UK wishes to trade up their concertina with a UK based dealer ? Example; say the UK dealer will part exchange your current instrument , after appraisal , when you buy another from them . The complexity of taxes charged coming in and going out could be prohibitive .

Whatever position you feel most comfortable with, I would think that is the right one.

A cranked , or convoluted path, lever combined with a non riveted action, as in a Lachenal, can result in sideways wear at the pivot and the lever can start to lean to one side under the force of the spring. You could try mounting the spring on the other side of the lever but otherwise some remedial work might be needed.

Many thanks Tiposx, really informative photos.

Congratulations! How's about a blow by blow account of the work ?

Yes, the same as the one posted at the start of this topic.