We are considering selling our Aeolian Orchestrelle, currently in
Perth, Western Australia.  I seek suggestions about (1) How to Price
It, and (2) How to Reach Potential Buyers.

1. The Instrument

This is a reed organ, pedal operated, playing from rolls or keyboard.
It is believed to be a Colonial Suction, Style V.  It was first sold
in Perth, around 1900.

The organ's history was written up in MMD 990722, with some further
particulars in 991026.  The mechanism was overhauled a few years ago,
and the case was re-polished a couple of years ago.  These have brought
it to excellent condition.

It has a small inventory of Aeolian rolls, 58 note, 6 holes to the
inch.  These result in this instrument being very much a niche
market/enthusiast's item.

A local newspaper article on the instrument, with picture, appears in
http://www.postnewspapers.com.au/20010414/impressions/home.shtml

2. Geography

Most of the around 1 million people in Western Australia live in and
around Perth - within say 2 hours drive.  The majority of Australia's
population live around the east coast - about 4 hours plane flight
(tickets priced accordingly!) away.

3. Support Material

We have just had a CD made of the Aeolian playing a number of its
rolls.  Photos can be taken, and e-mailed, or placed on a web site.

Problem 1 - How to Price It

There will have been very few similar items sold recently in Australia
to give us a guide on current market values.  Finding out about any
that have been sold is probably a matter of luck

What else -- think of a number?  Naturally we would like to get our
best available return.

Prices in other countries (probably northern hemisphere) are of little
relevance, given the likely transport costs for the instrument, and for
any potential buyer to come and look at it.

Problem 2 - How to Reach Potential Buyers

The most likely source of a buyer is a local (to Western Australia)
enthusiast; possibly one from eastern Australia.

A notice in MMD would reach many of the enthusiasts.

The eBay auction? I have heard of this, but have no experience, or feel
for any strength of this type of item in the possible market.

Web site -- how to list to attract enquires from potential buyers.
Local newspaper -- small exposure to potential buyers.
Local piano technicians.
Local music clubs/groups, etc.

MMD readers, I would love to have suggestions and comments.

Peter Edmonds (Aeolian Support Person)
Perth, Western Australia

P.S.:  Coincidence!  I read the AMOS posting this morning [Elaine de
Saxe in 020623 MMDigest].  I have responded, to seek local (Australian)
advice and support.