Your Question:
Hello, I have an old violin bow stamped Otto Adler. would you happen to have any info on the value of this bow and its history? I also have an old violin from 1912 by Ludwig Koschat with a serial number 2018.It has mechanical pegs as well.ps.is it possible for luthiers to switch the soundpost from a violin for their benefit? I took in an old violin and i just noticed it has a newer soundpost. this was done with out my permission. the sound isn't as bright anymore either.
My Answer:
Thank you for your inquiry. I would need more information and photos to give you an opinion. What I can tell you is that Otto Adler, bow maker, was born in Markneukirchen, Germany in 1910 and worked in Mittenwald. His silver mounted, ebony bows, in good condition sell for around $1,000. Condition, mountings and weight effect the value of a bow, so without knowing these things I can't give an opinion on the value of your bow. After seeing the photo of your bow it appears to be a nickel mounted pernambuco bow in need of some restoration. I would place the value of the bow in it's present state at $200-$400.
Regarding the Koschat violin, again, because condition and authenticity effect the value I am unable to give an opinion without more information. Can you send photos of the violin and bow?
About the soundpost, it is possible to change or replace a soundpost. Many luthiers will replace the soundpost whenever they carve a new bridge. It is not uncommon to replace an ill-fitting, cracked or split soundpost, or a soundpost that is the wrong diameter. You should talk with your luthier about this. If the soundpost was changed there might have been a good reason for it. A good luthier is willing and able to justify the work that was performed on an instrument. Most luthiers are willing to work with you on the adjustment of the instrument to get the sound to your liking. It is usually best to make an appointment with your luthier for this.
Your Question:
Hi I was wondering if you had any info on a violin made by Ludwig Koschat? and the value of this violin? It was made it 1912.
My Answer:
Ludwig Koschat violins were "trade" instruments made circa 1900. The quality of the photos don't allow enough detail for an accurate assessment of this violin. Based on my research the Koschat violins were manufactured in three models: Amati, Stradiavari and Guraneri. Your violin appears to be built on a Stradivari pattern. This model sold for $15-$25 circa 1910. The varnish looks to be spirit (or alcohol) based. You might want to have traditional pegs installed as the mechanical pegs add quite a bi
t of weight to the instrument which not only makes it heavy but can impair the sound. You have the violin set up with very good strings. Depending on your market I would place the value of this violin at $500-$1,000.
