Today I have tuned a Steinway & Sons grand, 221 cm long. In the plate it says New York. Serial n° 32305.

Is it a model C made in New York?

The poor piano needs a lot of rebuilding work. The owner asked me a quotation but I have not yet the skills to accomplish such a work, all I can do is some regulation and minor action repairs.

The vintage #32305 = 1875
There was a model that was produced from 1869-1884 that was 7'2" 85 notes. I guess that could be considered a early model "C"

I found an S&S (rosewood) from that period that fits that description, the serial number is in the 322xx range. When I was doing some research about it, everything suggested it was a model C.

The poor beast needs to be completely rebuilt, but will probably just stay in a corner and continue to be abused for a very long time .

I found these links useful:

http://www.shullpiano.com/html/early_steinway_grand_research_.html

http://www.brownfieldpiano.com/data.htm

Rafael:

Do you know anybody in Mexico who could do high quality rebuilding? (PM me if you don't want to answer here)

Thanks Rod. Yes it has 85 notes, square legs, square tail, and it has a 3/4 plate (the plate does not cover pinblock) It tunes easy! The pinblock is in an unbelieveble good condition. There are no lose tuning pins!

Erus,

Yes Mr. Garrido, from Pianos Garrido does quality rebuilding, he has more than 40 years of experience and a good reputation.

Greetings,
Prior to 1880, Steinway produced partial plate pianos and according to their nomenclature, were labeled as "Type 1", and "Type 3". They do not have the continuous rim, some have exposed pinblocks and 3/4 plates.
I sent a Type 3 back to the factory for a new soundboard and pin block, and the piano now appears to be coming apart where the pinblock joins the case, (as well a s huge bulge upwards in the middle of the block).
Regards,

“I sent a Type 3 back to the factory for a new soundboard and pin block, and the piano now appears to be coming apart where the pinblock joins the case, (as well as a huge bulge upwards in the middle of the block).”

Geez, sorry to hear about the nightmare. With the block coming up towards the ceiling I am not sure I would lean over top of this one to do any tuning…..

www.silverwoodpianos.com