Instruments and bows as safe investments

Instruments and bows: the best of the best

The purchase of a quality instrument or bow is a safe and profitable investment when acquired properly from a reputable source that guarantees their attribution and condition. For the music enthusiast or amateur player, instruments provide an unsurpassed opportunity to enrich the cultural life of a community. For the aspiring soloist or orchestral player, a good instrument is essential to win auditions and launch their careers. And finally, for the burgeoning philanthropist, investing in musical instruments will not only bring joy, but will help talented musicians fulfil their potential and realize their ambitions.

Independent consultants

Finding an authentic example in good condition at the appropriate price, however, can be a daunting task for anyone lacking the requisite arcane knowledge required to navigate the waters of the violin world. Which is why Wilder & Davis acts as consultant to a number of prominent institutions, patrons and collectors on issues of maintenance, collection dispersal and acquisitions.

In the case of acquisitions this can vary from providing impartial advice on a purchase to physically accompanying the buyer in the search for a fine instrument or bow. In its role as consultant, Wilder & Davis works for the buyer. The process starts with an interview discussing needs and options – what exactly is the client looking for in an instrument or bow, for what purpose (to play for family and friends or on the concert stage, to loan to a soloist, orchestral player or aspiring young player, to augment an institutional or personal collection), for how long and at what price point?

Once a strategy has been formulated and an item(s) chosen amongst those on offer by the principal dealers, auction houses and private sellers, we examine the selected instrument or bow independently with a view to ensuring its authenticity, evaluating its physical condition and assessing its playing potential. We will also review all accompanying documentation (certificates, insurance letters, dendrochronology reports, correspondence, published accounts), and research the price history of the item’s maker.

Aside from reducing anxiety, this approach increases choice for the buyer, ensures fair value and ultimately minimizes costs (consultation fees are typically lower that consignment commissions).

Selling

There are a number of ways to sell an instrument or bow. It is our job to help you find the best one.

Consignment

If you opt for sale on consignment, be assured that all our operations are transparent. Your instrument or bow will be rigorously prepared for sale and will be accompanied by a certificate if necessary. Evaluated at a fair price, the article will be offered to a large customer base in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Direct purchase

On occasion, we purchase instruments and bows directly if they require major restoration work and/or you are in a hurry to sell.

Direct sale to a third party

If you know a potential buyer, we will be happy to help you negotiate the sale and to advise you, without obligation, on the condition and value of the item.

Auction

Should this prove to be the best choice, we can pack your item and prepare shipping documents.

Donation with receipt for income tax purposes

Lastly, if you decide to donate your item to a school or orchestra in exchange for a tax credit, we will provide you with an updated written appraisal.