Serial number: 43072 (k). Manufactured in London in 1943, this exact style of tall Welmar was produced from the 1930’s all the way into the 1970. Possibility one of the longest runs in production of an unchanged style. That must say a lot for the designer to have a 1930’s design idea that if produced right now would still be considered current and suitable for a new modern home! This is very much the period when the English firm of Whelpdale, Maxwell and Codd had to innovate to survive the war and started producing their own version of a European style piano to combat the loss of imports from Germany. They were previously importers and agents of primarily Blüthner pianos. Besides not being able to import from Germany, the anti-German sentiment would have destroyed sales potential in Britain anyway.
This is just one example of how piano history reflects world history. We also see a few wartime Welmar pianos that reflect what was presumably production during a time of minimal resources, where some different parts were used in pianos built at the same time and even in the casings were different veneers or mismatched veneers are used. This one is superbly finished in mahogany and retains extremely original condition including the polish and superb set of ivory keys.
A very good piano! As one would expect, the tone is typically rich and mellower. The dimensions of this piano are a height of 123cm, a width 142.5cm and a depth of 57cm. It has 88 keys – with a medium touch weight – and two pedals.
The DE 644 Welmar Upright Pianoforte and stool is available for hire and sale.
Hire price: a launch charge of R 2 650.00 and a charge of R 600.00.
Sale price: R 49 500.00 (incl. VAT).
