New or Used?

In these times.. I would figure on spending upward to $2K on a new one... plus more, if you want hoots and whistles (martin graphics) and rare species of wood etc.

Used... perhaps upwards to $1500 depending on the shape it's in.

This is a mere guess on my part, as I have not bought any accordions in the past 5 years. But from what I am seeing here and there.. the prices have gone up substantially.

Builders may not be posting their prices any more on web sites. Could be the shock factor that scares people off when they see the cost...Or....It could be that they want only Serious Buyers calling to discuss the particulars and the overall prices. I don't quite know what the over all strategy is in the method they choose to advertise prices, or choose not to.

Merci Nonc

I would be happy with a used one but as you know you don't find many people willing to part with them. If I had one I wouldn't either.

I was at Junior Martin's shop this week, and he quoted $2000 for a new Cajun accordion.

I talked to Greg Mouton about 2 weeks ago. His new ones start at 1750.

Last time I looked into a Martin, about 1 year ago, the quote was $US 2300.00, for a basic accordion with the crab decal, a carrying case, and a shoulder strap. That was up $US 500.00 for the same accordion, 2 years earlier. I think Jr. is not alone in raising his prices. I'm not certain , but I think Savoy and others also raised their prices substantially in the past 2 years. The US $ has taken quite a hit with other world currencies. Some, if not many of the parts are imported.

Cheers
JL

Italian parts increase in cost on an average 5% each year. This, combined with the soaring Euro add up to $2,000- $2,300 Cajun boxes which 10 years ago might have cost $1,500. I consider $1,750 a steal on a Mouton..and $2,000 honest for a detailed Martin box.

Glenn

I have had several business dealings (one used and one new accordion) with Greg Mouton. He's a WONDERFUL craftsman, a WONDERFUL person, and honest beyond reproach. Believe me, he's not living a lifestyle of the rich and famous on what he manages to make by crafting hand-made Cajun accordions. Just take a drive by his shop on the Crowley-Eunice Highway (and home next to the music shop) and take a look for yourself. $1700 in 2007 is more than fair. When you drive by, stop, go in and have a chat with Greg. He'll stop whatever he's doing to talk with you. Great guy! His wife Theresa is great too!