Is this an okay price?

[Heatherarch]

I'm looking at a used Crucianelli. It's in Facebook marketplace. It's was in the seller's family for at least 18 years, it was a family members. They don't know anything about it, except that it plays. I'm going to look at it today, can anyone tell me by looking at the pictures more about the make and model? Thanks

 

[Heatherarch]

I didn't say the price, they're asking $400.

 

[Thomas N]

That seems steep for that instrument. 18 years sitting? Very basic model. One bass reed. Couple of treble reeds. Student model from my viewpoint. Others will know so much more about it.

If the keys didn't stick and all made a sound, the bellows were in good shape and it didn't smell musty I might spend $150 on it if I really, really, needed a very basic accordion for some reason.

I'll follow this to see what others say.

 

[Tom]

I agree with Thomas. A nice vintage Crucianelli which would be a nice “labor of love” restoration project. But beware of this one, the tape on the shifter is a sign that all may not be well with it. However, on the optimistic side, it may play beautifully. Please make sure you check this over good before purchasing. Good luck.

 

[Heatherarch]

We went to see it. All keys work and the bellows hold air. No chips or scratches. The current owners don't know how to play (it was his mother's) but we were able to hold it and play around with it. It is old, but only owned by one person who played it regularly.

 

[Heatherarch]

He told me the tape is where his mom used to secure music(?). They are asking $325.

 

[Tom]

Again, the price seems a bit high, but if you love this accordion, go for it! I hope it works out real well and you gain way more than $325 in enjoyment. Good luck!!!!

 

[Ben-jammin]

Is it just me or does it look like there are register paddles at are broken? I would avoid this one.

 

[Ventura]

there is only one register paddle, and on these
typically this switches between L and LM

4 reed bass

could be a Bambi or lady size.. he didn't say..
does not look like a full size

there re 2 lifted keys on opposite ends, which suggests
to me that internally it is dried out and 2 leather facings
have fallen off the felts.. more likely to fall..

these bellows are unlined and the reeds are export quality
at best in these basic student level cru's, so i feel the unit
has reached it's intended "end of life" as designed

offer $100 (or pass it up) and play it till it falls apart, but be advised
it will need constant spot "patching up" internally.. starting with
opening it up and hopefully finding the 2 leathers that have fallen off
are undamaged and glue them back into place