NIPPON GAKKI 7119

[saboman]

Hello, I have an old Yamaha upright piano and would like to found out how old it is. The only text I could find on the piano is "Yamaha Action - nippon gakki seizo kabushiki kaisha". I tried to locate a serial number inside and out but couldn't find any. The only number I found doesn't look like a normal serial number. It's the number 7119 engraved on several parts (perhaps it is a part number?).
Any information would be appreciated.

Regards,
Yaniv

[Colin Nicholson]

Nippon - Gakki S.K.K. were the first manufacturers for Yamaha, so assuming the serial number is correct, it suggests the year 1927.

[saboman]

Thanks a lot. I assumed it is old, but had no idea it's that old .

[Bill Kibby]

It's unwise to rely just on a number. In 1979, Kabushiki Kaisha, who used to make pianos, were part of the Sharp electronics firm, and had a US patent for an electronic device, with the same number as the old patent for the "Princess Piano"! Their piano trade mark was identical to that of Kawai, so I don't think this is a Yamaha piano, just a Yamaha action, but don't take my word for this, it all seems too modern for me!

Can you email photos to me?

[Colin Nicholson]

if this is the serial number, it is usually stencilled onto the gold frame - each number in black, and about 2cm in height. The serial number is usually inside the piano, near the tuning pins. If the number is "engraved" into the top lid - on the side - and facing upwards, this is the stock/cabinet number. A photo of it will confirm.

Colin

[Bill Kibby]

I'm afraid it simply isn't that simple. Seral numbers can be in various places, in many different forms, and some makers certainly imprinted them on the top edges of the case, or the soundboard, te action, etc.. These are not engraved, they are hammered in with a metal stamp. Case numbers are not always serial numbers, but they are sometimes. Removable case parts are often imprinted with the last 3 digits, but this may be of the case number, or the serial number.

[Colin Nicholson]

oh yes, I know all the likely places for serial numbers. Yamaha also sometimes put an inlaid brass strip into the top inside lid with serial number on, aswell as the serial number on the frame. I have also seen them "engraved" into the pressure bar - far right hand side usually just above top C strings or stamped onto the last few hammer heads, and although I agree that the term "engraving" may not be strictly correct for "hammered in with a metal stamp" - I know what you mean..... but even though its hammering into wood, is this not the same for hammering into metal (i.e. a trophy plaque)? - would be interested to know the correct term for this type of "reverse embossed" numbering system! Some Schiedmayer uprights (for eg) have their own raised plinth for the serial number - on the side panel. Yep - I think the best method is to actually see the numbers with the naked eye as we both agree.

[saboman]

Please check the following images:
http://img571.imageshack.us/img571/8391 ... number.jpg
http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/6035 ... action.jpg

I hope it'll help with the diagnostic.
Thanks again.

[George30]

hi everyone..
thank you for the info you shared btw im new in this site..
anyone can give some info about Nippon Gakki..
so that i can join in your discussion..
thanks............



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[athomik]

Nippon Gakki Co., Ltd. was the original name of Yamaha. It was founded in 1887 by Torakusu Yamaha, who was it's first president. As part if the company's 100th anniversary, the name was changed to Yamaha Corporation.