Repairs and expertise

The Craft of Violin Making Is Deeply Interwoven with History

The fact that old violins remain excellent instruments—that they aren’t used up and thrown away—has given rise to a remarkable culture around stringed instruments. There is a limited number of these fine old instruments, and their makers have long since passed away. That makes them all the more precious. Added to this is their story and historical value, as with any antique. And so, a market has emerged for old and expensive instruments, making them prime targets for forgers. Which is why experts are needed – those who can distinguish a fake from an original. Just as important is responsible repair and restoration.

Old and rare instruments have always been part of our family story – whether in František’s hands in Russia, J. Vitáček as curator of the Russian collection, Otakar in his successful dealership, Přemysl as a passionate enthusiast and internationally respected expert, or in the care of Jan and, more recently, František. We strive to apply this accumulated knowledge in our work, particularly as specialists in Czech instruments.

In cases where the instrument can be confidently identified, we can provide a written certificate of authenticity (with photographs) or a written appraisal (without photographs), for example, for insurance purposes. The price of these documents depends on the estimated value of the instrument. Oral evaluations and consultations are available for a flat fee of 1,000 CZK.

Proper repair and restoration work is extremely time-intensive. Unfortunately, we are not able to meet all requests, and we are currently only able to accept instruments that we trade in or that come from within the family.