Is $400 too much for this VV-XI?

[Scott]

I know that the VV-XI was one of the most popular models produced (over 800,000 accoring to the Victor-Victrola site), but this one looks to be in fantastic shape. If I'm overpaying, what is a fair price? I know that a price is irrelevant if you really want something, but I value everyone's opinion here.

Thanks,
Scott

[OrthoSean]

$400 is way too much. Even with the pictures being kind of low quality, it looks pretty apparent that at least the outside has been refinished.

Sean

[Jerry B.]

I agree with Sean. The outside appears to have been refinished. The gorgeous VE-XVI that I posted in "Machines" will be for sale when the motor is sorted out, and the price will be around $400. If you like the looks of the smaller XI, find a nice original one. Jerry

[Scott]

Seller claims that it's just been polished and not refinished. I'll know more when I see it. If it's original finish, it's in very good shape. We'll see, but I'm not going to pay $400 either way. I'm thinking $300 is more than fair.

[OrthoSean]

Unfortunately, sellers claim "lots" of things (including ignorance)

Something's also not right with the reproducer on that machine, an XI of that period should have an Exhibition on it, I can't really tell what the one on it is. It almost looks like it could be a #4(A) but it's hard to tell.

Sean

[Steve]

Unfortunately, sellers claim "lots" of things (including ignorance)

Very true, Sean, very true. Some sellers claim not to know what it is they are attempting to sell, Enigma machine thieves among them!

As for the machine pictured above, I have to agree again with Sean: it has almost certainly be re-polished / refinished. The surface finish displays absolutely no signs of age anywhere - the whole thing might justas well be a reproduction. It has not simply been "polished" if your definition of "polishing" means fine scouring and /or buffing / waxing of an original aged amalgamated hard finish.

[Scott]

Thanks for the info guys. I'm not going to purcahse it. Too many very good points from you all to make me consider buying it.. Thanks again for the assist.