Collecting music boxes such as carousel music boxes, music trinket boxes, children's jewelry boxes, and many other mechanical instruments and movements is a hobby loved by many a music box and antique collector. However, there are certain things music boxes and antique collectors can do to ensure they are getting a valuable piece for their collection. Here are a few tips to help in this process.
1. Make sure you truly are purchasing a valuable music box. There are some vendors who inflate the value of the item and in general are just unscrupulous. To protect yourself, first took carefully at the box. If it looks like new, be cautious since, unfortunately, some restorers have just cleared away all the originality. If the music box is old and pricey, you can usually find out who has restored it, how good it was, as well as check out the restorer's reputation.
2. If purchasing a fully restored music box, consider a preserved piece in an unrestored and original condition, as this will have much more value. While fully restored musical boxes look quite attractive, they very well maybe of less value that a preserved piece in an unrestored and original condition. For example, just about all key-wound music boxes made before 1850 were produced when quality was the priority. Typically, the more plain the case of a cylinder music box, the earlier it was made. Also, tune sheet forms are important and any absence decreases its value. Most antique and music box collectors prefer to have music boxes with the original sheets. So, remember these important points when considering purchasing a fully restored or unrestored music box.
3. Take a careful look at the front, sides, and back of music boxes made from the 1880's on. Many were made to look nice with a simple walnut veneer, but in reality a simple technique of brush-graining using scumble was done. In addition, the bells were cheap and had a high and untuned sound. So, these types of music boxes are best to avoid if seeking a box of value.
4. Look for music boxes with plain cases as an important point to consider since it is likely the date when it was manufactured was early. Another point to consider is the larger the movement relative to its case, the higher quality and value a music box has. While this may not be true in all cases, it is important to think about when assessing a music box's value.
Collecting music boxes such as carousel music boxes, music trinket boxes, children's jewelry boxes, and many other mechanical instruments and movements is hobby loved by many a music box and antique collector. Following the above tips can greatly assist collectors in forming a valuable music box collection.
Many music box and antique collectors enjoy collecting inlaid music boxes, wooden keepsake boxes, musical jewelry boxes, and other mechanical music and musical gifts. In part two of this two article series, we will take a look at additional tips to consider when seeking to develop a valuable music box collection.
1. While music box collecting can be expensive, its important to remember to make sure the item that is being purchased does not have inflated value. So, take your time and develop a systematic appraisal, which can be used for all music box purchases. For example, some things to look for are loose, damaged, and missing veneer; looking to see if the design on the lid is an inlay and not a transfer. It is also necessary to check to make sure the musical movement is not damaged, no corrosion is present which can lead to lead leaks, and listen to make sure the tune on the music box is perfect. Plus, take your time when making a decision
2. If you find a music box that you fall in love with, but it has defects, go ahead and buy it! Usually, everything is capable of being replaced if you have the time, money, and know someone who is skilled in this area.
3. When buying a music box at an auction, always look at the piece prior to the auction. Make sure you examine the box carefully and decide how valuable it truly it is for you, no matter the cost. This will also ensure that you remain within your budget!
4. Music boxes can be delicate. Therefore, when it comes to transporting them you must be careful. There are precautions to take to ensure that your valuable collectible is not damaged in any way. Transpiration suggestions include putting the piece on the floor in the car, and remembering to never stand a music box on its end. Also, carry a cylinder music box in a level position to keep the cylinder from bouncing up and down. Additional tips include using a high density plastic foam to wrap your valuable in, using large strong crates for large musical boxes (best to let the professionals pack it) and putting "breakable" or "handle like glass" if it has to be shipped a long distance.
Collecting music boxes such as inlaid music boxes, wooden keepsake boxes, musical jewelry boxes, and other mechanical music and musical gifts, and many other mechanical instruments and movements are hobby loved by many a music box and antique collector. Following the above tips can greatly assist collectors in forming a valuable music box collection.
Monique Hawkins has sinced written about articles on various topics from Keyboard Synthesizer, Wedding Bells and Mortgage Insurance. Established in May of 2005, is a music box gift store specializing in products such as inlaid ballerina music boxes for ballerina rooms d'cor. Monique Hawkins's top article generates over 1500000 views. to your Favourites.