Keys for Eavestaff W.H. Barnes Minipiano

[alrago]

I'm interesting in learning more about a 1930s Eavestaff W.H. Barnes Minipiano, specifically interested in the composition of the instrument's keys. Upon inspection it appears the keys are not made of ivory, as a grain is not noticeable in comparison to the keys of a Steinway. Is it typical for Eavestaff 1930s minipiano to have ivory keys?

I'm attaching an image of the piano, and I can provide a detail image if necessary.

Thank you in advance for your assistance with my inquiry!
A&L

[Bill Kibby]

These little pianos wouldn't compare to a Steinway in any way, and although they are still popular with some owners, they are unlikely to have ivory keys, I can't recall ever seeing them with ivory, and one would not expect ivory in the cheaper end of the market.

How does your tuner get on with it? Is it holding in tune?

Is there a serial number inside the tuning flap under the keys?

[Colin Nicholson]

I'm a little surprised that you asked about the keys, yet the photo is just for general view.... however,
all minis I have tuned / repaired/ restored in the past have had celluloid key coverings, not ivory. The keys are shorter than your average piano, and occasionally 'stick' because the balance weight is not quite there. At the back of each key, it will look to be split in two.... each one is bushed and has a leather 'bullet' (acting as a pin) to connect the lift rods.

See http://www.aatuners.com/restoration-i-uprights.html
[scroll about 1/2 way down - this is one I restored with real art deco electric sconces]

If you remove the rear panel (about 10 screws), it will show the 'suspended' mechanism.... and everything in reverse!
The tuning pins are double-breasted, meaning they pass through the wrest plank - one end is tuned (front), and the rear end the strings are attached to. If you book a piano tuner, they must recline the whole mechanism & keyboard together to get the muting strip in.... and with this piano being mostly bi-chords, the tuner will have to work out a system to tune each alternating right & left string.... depending on how tight the tuning pins are.

Very attractive pianos to look at, but tuning one comes at a cost....

[Gill the Piano]

Very attractive pianos to look at, but tuning one comes at a cost....

...to cover the tuner's osteopathy bills!