Vintage ANNO 1985 Stradivarius Model #170 Violin Giardini Made in Germany for William Lewis - Serial# 16843 - Gustave August Ficher

Up for sale is a vintage 1985 Stradivarius Model 170 violin made in Germany by Giardini for William Lewis & Sons of Chicago. The warm, golden-brown varnish has a lovely patina. The instrument produces a rich, resonant tone. The violin comes complete with a hard case and bow, making it an excellent choice for serious musicians or collectors.

The violin's rich tone and precise craftsmanship reflect the high standards of William Lewis & Son, a company known for its quality stringed instruments. The "ANNO 1985" marking confirms its vintage status, adding to its appeal and value.

Key Specifications:

Full size (4/4) violin (see actual dimensions below to confirm)

Made in Germany in 1985

Stradivarius Model 170

Maker: Giardini for William Lewis & Sons

Serial Number: 16843

Includes: Violin, hard case with removable shoulder strap, and bow

Approx. Dimensions: 

Violin: 24" L x 8" W x 3-1/4" D 

Bow: 29" L

Sold as is. No warranty from the seller. No Returns.

CONDITION NOTE: Used, but in very good overall physical condition (see pictures). For marketplaces with video support, see a short video of my wife plucking the strings and bowing 2 of the strings (she has never played violin, so be aware of that). The strings are old and should be replaced with one string missing. The body of this violin has 3 chips on the top outer edge (see pictures), some minor surfaces scratches, and 3 dents on the top surface just below the neck. I do not see any cracks, or repairs (see pictures). A bow is included and it appears to be in very good working order. While the hard case is included (along with a removable shoulder strap) and is structurally intact with working latches, 3 of the 4 metal feet on the hinge edge of the case are missing (see pictures). Does not come with any original packaging, or documentation. See detailed high resolution (zoom-able) pictures to know what you are purchasing.

Background on the Manufacturer

William Lewis & Son is a well-respected name in the violin trade, known for producing high-quality stringed instruments. The company has a long history of collaborating with skilled German luthiers to create instruments that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern precision. Giardini, the maker of this violin, likely worked as a contracted luthier for William Lewis & Son, producing instruments to their exacting standards.

Release Date or Age of Item

This violin was made in 1985, making it approximately 39 years old as of 2024.

Search Keywords

vintage violin, Stradivarius model, Giardini, William Lewis & Son, German violin, 1985 violin, antique instrument, classical music, string instrument, luthier crafted, collectible violin, professional violin, ANNO 1985, violin with case, violin with bow

NOTE: If you want to see other items like this, that I may be selling, check out my eBay Store Home, Auto, & Yard page (where I will be adding more items weekly). See: 

https://www.ebay.com/str/quantumonlinesalesservices/Home-Yard-Auto/_i.html?store_cat=34571410011