Business Details
Expert Violin Sales & Restoration in Bristol Since 1879
Established in 1879, Violinvaluations.com has been a cornerstone of the British violin trade for over 140 years. Founded by George Darbey, a renowned violin and bow maker whose work rivalled French counterparts, we have maintained our reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and expertise. Under Richard Bristow's leadership since 1979, we continue to offer a curated selection of modern, antique, and vintage violins, violas, cellos, and bows. Our dedicated workshops provide meticulous restoration and repair services, ensuring every instrument is performance-ready. As the oldest violin shop in the UK, we combine historical legacy with contemporary service, offering both in-store and online valuations, sales, and expert advice. Appointments are required for instrument and bow consultations, ensuring personalized attention to every client.Our commitment to quality is underscored by our guaranteed restoration work and partnerships with insurance companies. Based in Bristol, we serve a global clientele, blending traditional techniques with modern precision. With a rich history documented in our Victorian fittings and mahogany cabinets, we remain a trusted authority in violin craftsmanship. Our team, including professionally trained restorer Ken Green, prioritizes sympathetic restoration and transparent communication. For over a century and a half, we have been the destination for musicians, collectors, and enthusiasts seeking unparalleled expertise in stringed instruments.
Services
Violin Sales
Violin Restoration
Instrument Valuations
Online Sales
Bow Appraisals
Highlights and features
- Established in 1879, we offer unparalleled expertise in violin craftsmanship.
- Led by Richard Bristow since 1979, our team ensures quality restoration.
- We provide free instrument appraisals with detailed assessments.
- Our shop features a wide range of modern and antique instruments.
- All repairs are guaranteed and carried out sympathetically.
Services
Violin Sales
We offer a curated selection of modern, antique, and vintage violins, violas, cellos, and bows. Each instrument is meticulously set up in our workshops for immediate playability. Our inventory caters to professionals, students, and collectors seeking quality craftsmanship.
Violin Restoration
Our professionally trained restorers provide sympathetic repairs and full restorations for all stringed instruments. Services include crack repairs, varnish restoration, and structural adjustments, using traditional techniques to preserve historical integrity while ensuring playability.
Instrument Valuations
We offer accurate valuations for insurance, sale, or inheritance purposes. Our experts assess instruments and bows based on maker, condition, and provenance. Free appraisals require detailed photographs and descriptions submitted via our online forms.
Online Sales
Our online platform allows global access to select instruments and accessories. While mail orders are temporarily suspended, we facilitate personalized phone or email orders for strings, cases, and bows, maintaining our commitment to quality service.
Bow Appraisals
Specialist assessments for violin, viola, and cello bows are conducted by our experts. The appraisal process considers maker, materials, and condition, with detailed feedback provided to help clients understand their bow's value and historical significance.
People
Richard Bristow
Owner
Richard Bristow has led Violinvaluations.com since 1979, building on its 140-year legacy. With expertise in violin making and restoration, he ensures every instrument meets exacting standards. His leadership maintains the shop's reputation for quality craftsmanship and client-focused service.
Ken Green
Restorer
Ken Green, a professionally trained restorer from the Welsh School of Violin Making, specializes in sympathetic instrument restoration. With decades of experience, he handles complex repairs and restorations, ensuring historical integrity while meeting modern performance requirements for clients worldwide.
Questions
What services does Violinvaluations.com offer?
We specialize in violin, viola, cello, and bow sales, restoration, and valuations. Our services include expert repairs, free appraisals, and online sales of select instruments and accessories.
How can I get an instrument appraisal?
Submit detailed photographs and information via our online appraisal forms for violins, cellos, or bows. Our experts provide accurate valuations for insurance or sale purposes.
Are repairs guaranteed?
Yes, all our restoration and repair work is fully guaranteed. We use traditional methods to ensure quality while preserving each instrument's historical character.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept bank transfers, cheques, and phone payments. For online accessory orders, contact us directly to arrange payment and ensure prompt service.
Is the shop currently open?
Due to exceptional circumstances, we're temporarily closed. Appointments for instrument consultations are available via prior arrangement by phone or email.
