Bechstein Model S

Colour: Walnut
Year: 1937

The C. Bechstein Model S is a compact 5-foot baby grand piano designed to deliver the tonal character and craftsmanship of the renowned German manufacturer in a space-conscious format. Dating from 1937 and priced at £8,995, this example is finished in an elegant walnut cabinet and represents an outstanding opportunity to own a pre-war Bechstein grand of real pedigree.

The Model S combines the clarity, responsiveness, and tonal refinement for which Bechstein is celebrated with a size that suits many home music rooms and smaller performance spaces. This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery.

Available to purchase online or to try in person at our Oxfordshire showroom. Contact us to arrange a private viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bechstein Model S, and who is it for?

The Bechstein Model S is Bechstein's compact baby grand, designed to deliver the full tonal character and action quality of a Bechstein grand in a format that works in smaller rooms. At approximately 5 feet in length, it is a practical choice for home music rooms where a larger instrument would not fit, without compromising on the Bechstein tonal and mechanical quality. A 1937 example built during Bechstein's pre-war golden period is a particularly desirable instrument.

How does the Bechstein Model S compare to a Yamaha baby grand at a similar price?

A Yamaha baby grand from a similar price range offers modern Japanese consistency, a bright and even tone, and reliable action regulation. The 1937 Bechstein Model S offers something fundamentally different, a pre-war German instrument with a more complex, individually characterful sound and the historical provenance of one of the world's greatest piano makers. For a buyer who values tonal character and heritage as much as modern specification, the Bechstein is the more compelling choice. We stock both and are happy to let you compare them in person.

Is a 1937 Bechstein reliable as a playing instrument today?

Yes, when properly maintained and prepared. A Bechstein grand from 1937 has structural foundations, the cast iron frame and the rim, that are effectively permanent. The action, strings, and dampers require periodic attention, which this instrument has received from our team. We are fully transparent about the work carried out and happy to discuss condition in detail before any purchase decision.

What is special about the walnut cabinet on this Bechstein?

Walnut is a warm, visually distinctive finish that suits traditional interiors, wooden floors, and rooms where black would feel too stark. A 1937 pre-war Bechstein in walnut is a genuinely rare find, the combination of this period, this maker, and this finish is unusual on the used market and makes this a particularly attractive instrument for buyers who care as much about how their piano looks as how it sounds.

How long will a 1937 Bechstein Model S last?

This piano has already lasted 88 years and remains a serious musical instrument. With proper maintenance, correct placement, and periodic attention from a skilled technician, a Bechstein of this quality can continue to perform beautifully for many more decades, and well beyond the lifetime of its next owner.