Bosendorfer 170

Colour: Rosewood Polyester
Year: 1984

The Bosendorfer 170 (C1173) is a 170cm grand piano hand-built in Vienna, an instrument from one of the world's most revered piano makers, celebrated for its distinctive Viennese tone, extraordinary depth of sound, and the exceptional craftsmanship that has defined Bosendorfer since 1828. This c.1984 example, finished in polished rosewood polyester and priced at £24,995, offers a rare opportunity to own a genuine Bosendorfer grand at a fraction of the cost of a new instrument.

Bosendorfer pianos are widely considered among the finest ever made, with a tonal character that is warmer and more complex than most other grands. This instrument has been carefully assessed and prepared by our specialist technicians 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 makes Bosendorfer unique among grand piano makers?

Bosendorfer is one of the oldest piano makers in the world, founded in Vienna in 1828 and now the only major piano manufacturer still building instruments in Austria. Their pianos are famous for a distinctive Viennese tonal character, warm, dark, and deeply resonant in the bass, with a velvet richness through the middle register and a clarity in the treble that is unlike any other maker. Bosendorfer also reinforces their piano cases with solid spruce rather than laminate, which contributes directly to the instrument's exceptional sustain and tonal complexity.

How does a Bosendorfer 170 compare to a Steinway Model O at a similar size?

Both are world-class instruments at the very top of the grand piano hierarchy. The Steinway Model O has a brighter, more projecting, singing tone with greater dynamic contrast. The Bosendorfer 170 has a darker, warmer, more intimate character with extraordinary depth in the lower register. Many of the world's greatest pianists have strong preferences for one over the other. The only true way to decide is to play both. We stock Steinway grands and are very happy to facilitate a direct comparison at our showroom.

How does a Bosendorfer compare to a Bluthner or Bechstein grand?

All three are among the finest European grand piano makers. Bechstein tends toward clarity and refinement, Bluthner toward warmth and lyrical singing tone, and Bosendorfer toward depth, darkness, and extraordinary harmonic richness. Each has a distinct and very personal character. A buyer who cares deeply about which instrument speaks to them most directly should try all three before deciding. We stock grands from all three brands and are delighted to arrange this.

Is a 1984 Bosendorfer 170 a good buy?

The 1984 Bosendorfer 170 was made during a period of excellent Viennese production, and a well-maintained example represents outstanding value compared to the cost of a new Bosendorfer. New key coverings have been fitted and this instrument has been carefully assessed by our specialist technicians. Buying a quality used Bosendorfer from a reputable dealer is one of the strongest ways to access this level of instrument.

How long will a Bosendorfer 170 last?

A well-maintained Bosendorfer grand should give 80 to 100 years of outstanding performance. The quality of materials and construction Bosendorfer applies is without equal among piano makers. Regular tuning, periodic regulation and voicing by a skilled technician, and the correct environment are all that is needed to keep this extraordinary instrument at its finest.