Piano World Home Page Forums Our Most Popular Forums Piano Forum Grey market Yamaha G3

Well, after my original post things have changed a bit. I was disappointed to find out that the piano I *thought* was a C3 is actually a grey market G3 (not the seller's fault; I read the post wrong). Still in immaculate condition; I spoke to the man that has tuned it a couple times and he says it's a beautiful piano with no problems. It was built in 1991.
The owner is asking $10,000 or offer. That seems pretty steep to us; the tuner says he's pretty sure that's what the owner paid for it 8-9 years ago. Also, the piano is about 400 miles from us but we have a friend that's a piano mover so that's not a huge issue.
What do you all think? Does anyone have an idea of what the piano is worth if it truly is in excellent condition?
Thanks;
Julie

I've seen other G2s and G3s for sale in that price range, FWIW.

Please excuse and correct me if I am wrong. I am concerned because it doesn't sound like you have seen or played the instrument yourself, or a new C3 to compare. If you go back to the PW page, there is a menu on the left hand side to scroll through and find "Piano Value?" That may give a you rough guide for depreciation.
I am concerned that the used G3 might only have been tuned a couple of times? In total since 1991? If that really is the case, that may be another point for negotiating the price down.

A newer gray market Yamaha G3 would most likely be a G3A with 3 pedals. I've had a few that were in pristine cond and actually were very nice pianos. They seem factory voiced a bit darker and lesser of a piano than a C3. But G3(s) even non gray market retailed and sold for much less $ than a C3 new. I think 10K is a bit high in that I would kick in not that much more $ and get a C3 for that pricepoint.To justify the price for a G3 it has to be a discernable difference between the two for the obvious reasons. 8K is more like it.
To be blunt a brand new Hailun 198 blows the doors off a 27 year old G3 at your relative pricepoint.

I wouldn't have a problem with a grey market instrument if it sang to me, was in great shape, and was priced right. Fine (4th ed.) writes that "those who live in more humid areas of the US or areas with mild winters probably assume little risk."

I sometimes wonder if I am assuming a bigger risk by purchasing a piano that was intended for a less humid area with harsh winters, although climate control should not make it too much of an issue.

It's actually only 17 years old, but we were thinking that $8000-8500 would be a bit closer to a good price. Thanks for your help :0)
Julie

My assessment still stands even though I can't subtract at times That G3 will be fine if you can negociate the price down a bit. Good luck!