Challen 350?

[amazonianwoman]

Hi

I'm a complete novice regarding pianos, other than that I know I'm not at all keen on the (very good quality) digital piano that I'm currently renting, so I'm looking for a used upright. I started piano lessons in April and am taking grade 1 this November, the digital is being returned next month. My daughter (6) has also started lessons.

I don't want to spend too much at this stage, but I don't want a wreck!

I've seen a Challen online - I'll try to view it, preferably with the tuner my piano teacher uses, but it's a bit of a hike so would like as much info beforehand as possible. It's advertised as a "Challen 350" and 350 is etched on the top, but I can't find anything about this model number, if that's what it is? And I don't have any other serial number. Not sure if I can attach a photo? I could always email one.

It has been in the same family since around 1970, and also has "Godfrey and Co Ltd, 38 Boar Lane Leeds" etched in gold above the keys.

Thanks in anticipation.

[Bill Kibby]

All the things you want to know in these situations depend entirely on being able to get a tuner there on the spot. The fact that is a model 350, or a Challen, is insignificant by comparison with the question of what it sounds like, what it like to play, and especially whether it will hold in tune. If the tuning pins are loose, this will probably cost over a thousand pounds to fix.

[amazonianwoman]

Thanks for your reply.

I've decided that it's probably better (in my circumstances) to buy from a piano dealer with a 5 year guarantee etc, except I saw so many nice pianos this morning I'm even more confused