Seeking info on Bettoney piccolo

[mickeyf]

Years ago I "messed around" on flute, but it has never been my main instrument (mostly I play horns these days) and I am finally bringing myself to part with the instruments I don't play or practice. One of these is a Bettoney Piccolo, serial 24xx, (entirely wood - presumably Ebony - not with a silver head joint as most seem to have). I did find one photo of a similar one http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/141 ... ey-piccolo

So far I have not been able to find any other references to an all wood Bettoney Piccolo searching the net, and am hoping that someone here with and interest in older instruments can give me some background on this one. Music Trader and the serial number lists I've found don't show this one.

Age? Possible value? (I have not had it overhauled or played it in years, I'm sure it needs a serious tune-up.) Historical information? Anything else of note or interest?

Thanks in advance.

Mickey

[nelsojm]

Mickey,
I too have a Bettoney piccolo that I am curious about. Mine was inherited from my mother in-law and is a D-flat all wood, Grenadilla not ebony, piccolo. I have not had much success finding any information about it. As near as I can figure out based on the serial numbers, they are from the 1920’s. Mine is in pretty rough shape. I do have a use for it so I am interested in getting it overhauled but don’t want to spend more than it is worth. I have seen a few other D-flat piccolos for sale online ranging from $200-$500. It would be worthwhile for you to find out if yours is a D-flat or C piccolo. It should say right below the serial #, D>. I am taking mine into the shop tomorrow to get their expert opinion on it. If I find out any more I’ll keep you posted and would appreciate it if you would let me know anything you find out.

[nelsojm]

Sad News, it's not worth getting my piccolo overhauled. Mine is probably in worse shape than yours but I was told it was not a very good piccolo to begin with, worth maybe $200 in good working order. That was bad news since he said it would be at least $800 to get it in that condition. Needless to say I will hang on to it, as is, just for sentimental value. He did agree that it was probably from the 1920's. I was also told that brand was a difficult piccolo to play and get a good sound due to poor design of the blow hole.
Good luck with what ever you decide to do with yours and I hope this was helpful. Maybe someone else would have a different opinion of the piccolo.

[mickeyf]

Thanks. Mine is C. Not sure why I said ebony, probably Grenadilla. No other info unearthed at this point.