Serial number: 151834. This piano was manufactured in Berlin, Germany, in 1959. This is the supreme model upright from Bechstein. They are super-rare. We very seldom see pianos of this quality from the later part of the 20th century in South Africa. The comparable new model is one of the most expensive upright pianos in the world today. Bechstein has a brilliant reputation acquired by its history in the piano trade. This Concert 8 Model Bechstein is proof enough. Glistening with a freshly painted high gloss black finish (May 2025), this is the epitome of quality and style.
It has a story to tell!
Stumbling on an upright piano like this in an S.P.C.A. Charity Shop is surprising, staggering, startling and – just – sheer luck! Most wouldn’t look twice considering how the piano looked. Some of the peeled veneer was hastily painted over, another section just left uncovered and stark. The general finish looked sad, worn and rough. The piano really looked like one of those donated items in need of repair. Strangely though, the stool had been wrapped in bubble wrap plastic.
Opening the piano to view the significant ‘8’ branding on the frame confirmed the adage, “Don’t judge a book by its cover!” Internally, clean as a whistle, that ‘8’ is a symbol of a distinct sound and feel. If only the sign had not requested for the piano not to be played! It even has a Renner Action! Internally this piano looks virtually new without any replaced parts or repairs. Fully original, including the beautiful ivory keys. This is probably one of a handful of the best upright pianos available in South Africa.
Manufactured with true craftmanship in Germany by a highly well-regarded maker, being their top of the range Concert 8 Model and still being sound internally, a proper repolishing was all that was required to restore and revitalise the brilliance of being one of the best upright pianos in the world!
The tone is absolute rich and powerful. The touch is of a medium weight. The piano dimensions are a height of 130 cm, a width of 156.5 cm and a depth of 64 cm.
The DE 694 Bechstein Upright Pianoforte with stool is available for hire and sale.
Hire price: a launch charge of R 3 250.00 and a monthly charge of R 1 950.00.
Sale price: R 200 000.00 (incl. VAT).
It is completely undervalued at R 200 000.00.
The photographs below show how the piano looked when we purchased it.
