Experts in every Investment - Classical Instruments

We are very excited to announce our first classical instrument release. This Friday 30.08.2024 we release an exquisite Luigi Cardi violin at 9:00 CEST.

Why invest in classical instruments?

Historical data shows an extremely impressive performance of classical instruments as an asset class. For a century, classical string instruments have shown an average annual increase in value of 5.6%. In the last two decades, this growth has even accelerated to a remarkable 11% per annum. This continuous increase in value is favoured by a number of factors.

Firstly, the scarcity of high-quality instruments is a key driver. On average, an excellent violin maker only produces 5-10 instruments per year. This limited production, coupled with steadily growing demand, particularly from Asia and America, is leading to a continuous upward revaluation of prices.

In addition, classical instruments are characterised by remarkable stability. In contrast to many other asset classes, they are virtually unaffected by market fluctuations. This stability, coupled with the long-term increase in value, makes them an attractive option for investors who value security.

A Pioneer in the World of Classical Musical Instruments

Jost Thöne has been a leading figure in the world of classical musical instruments for over three decades. Driven by a deep-rooted passion inherited from his musician father, Thöne opened his first shop in 1988 and dedicated himself to connecting world-class instruments with soloists, collectors, and investors.

Beyond his role as a dealer, Thöne is a recognized authority on classical instruments, particularly those crafted by the great Italian masters. He has authored several groundbreaking works on Stradivari instruments and advises foundations and private investors on building significant collections of stringed instruments.

“Antonio Stradivari Vol. I‑VIII” - Jost Thoene Verlag

Market Insights from a Veteran

Thöne's unique perspective on the market is shaped by his extensive experience. He has observed that the market for classical instruments, compared to other art markets, is relatively stable. He emphasizes:

"The beauty of this market is that it doesn't follow trends like you see in the art world."

Nevertheless, there are changes. For example, the growing interest in instruments that may not meet the highest condition standards is notable. This is partly due to the limited availability of top-tier instruments and the increasing number of highly skilled musicians worldwide.

According to Thöne, several factors influence the value of a classical instrument, including the maker, condition, sound, and provenance. He stresses that understanding these factors is crucial for making informed investment decisions.

Authenticity and Expertise

When evaluating instruments for potential investment, Thöne places great importance on authenticity and quality. He works with a network of world-renowned experts to verify the authenticity of instruments and employs a variety of scientific methods such as dendrochronology and CT scans to assess their condition. Thöne has also developed a unique approach to documenting instruments, creating detailed monographs that set a new standard for instrument research.