Singer piano date?

rabidhamster · Post by **rabidhamster** » 31 Oct 2007, 21:26

I just bought a singer upright piano. Could someone date it for me please.
the # is 14727. Thanks, rabidhamster

Post by **Bill Kibby** » 01 Nov 2007, 00:56

The number suggests 1898.

rabidhamster · Post by **rabidhamster** » 01 Nov 2007, 03:36

Thanks for the reply. A guy at a piano shop looked in a book and said the same thing about 30 minutes ago. But cast into the big plate of metal that the strings are on it says "Patented April 25, 1899 NO 623690" I would think it would have to have been made after that date. He did not know why so I am puzzled ? Any light you could shed would be great. I hope to get him out next week to tune it and give it a once over.

Post by **Bill Kibby** » 01 Nov 2007, 10:52

The whole concept of obtaining a precise date for a piano is flawed, and there are various pitfalls, not least of which is that fact that the manufacturing process from components to completion can be so long. The following scenario is an illustration of the kind of problems which can often occur when attempting to place a single date on a piano:

1900 The iron frame is designed, ordered in bulk, and cast with a datemark.

1902 A patent is applied for.
1904 The action is manufactured, and stamped with a number.
1905 The keys are completed, and dated on a label.
1906 The piano is completed, and stamped with a number.
1908 The piano reaches the retailer.
1911 The piano is sold.

What is the date of this piano?

Have a look at the Numbers & Datemarks pages at www.pianogen.org

rabidhamster · Post by **rabidhamster** » 02 Nov 2007, 01:22

Thank you very much for the reply, that explains it very well. So I have a 1898 model with a 1899 iron frame that might not have rolled off as a compleated piano for a couple of years. Makes sense, Thanks.