Bösendorfer Imperial 290 (1978) – Exceptional Concert Grand Piano – Studio Prism Lausanne Provenance (Switzerland)
Some instruments simply cannot be replaced.
After more than forty years at the renowned Studio Prism in Lausanne, Switzerland, we are pleased to offer for sale this Bösendorfer Imperial 290, manufactured in 1978 in Vienna, Austria – one of the most prestigious and iconic concert grand pianos ever built.
More than just an instrument, this piano is part of the history of a professional recording studio that welcomed internationally renowned artists over the decades, including David Bowie, Peter Gabriel, Catherine Lara, and many others.
For more than 40 years, this...
View full text of the offerBösendorfer Imperial 290 (1978) – Exceptional Concert Grand Piano – Studio Prism Lausanne Provenance (Switzerland)
Some instruments simply cannot be replaced.
After more than forty years at the renowned Studio Prism in Lausanne, Switzerland, we are pleased to offer for sale this Bösendorfer Imperial 290, manufactured in 1978 in Vienna, Austria – one of the most prestigious and iconic concert grand pianos ever built.
More than just an instrument, this piano is part of the history of a professional recording studio that welcomed internationally renowned artists over the decades, including David Bowie, Peter Gabriel, Catherine Lara, and many others.
For more than 40 years, this Bösendorfer remained in the same location, in a stable professional environment. It was carefully maintained and regularly tuned whenever necessary to ensure its continued use in the studio.
Specifications
Brand: Bösendorfer
Model: Imperial 290
Serial number: 32498
Year: 1978
Finish: High-gloss polished black
Length: 290 cm
Width: 168 cm
Height: 120 cm
Weight: 552 kg
The Bösendorfer Imperial 290 is instantly recognizable thanks to its unique 97-key keyboard, providing a full eight-octave range with five additional bass keys – the legendary signature feature of the Imperial model.
This extended register provides exceptional depth, resonance and harmonic richness, which have made this piano world-renowned among concert pianists, recording studios and major musical institutions.
Condition of the instrument
The piano is fully functional, playable and in regular musical condition.
It has never undergone a complete "concert-level" restoration, but has always received the essential professional maintenance required throughout its life, including regular tunings and servicing whenever necessary.
In 2021, a specialist Bösendorfer workshop prepared a detailed estimate for a complete restoration.
The total cost for this full restoration was estimated at CHF 29,800.
This document is naturally available to seriously interested buyers.
The asking price takes this potential restoration into account, allowing the future owner the freedom to choose the level of intervention and the workshop of their preference.
Exceptional provenance
This piano has not been passed through multiple owners.
It remained installed for more than four decades at Studio Prism in Lausanne, one of the most important professional recording studios in Europe during its era.
Its history is exceptionally well documented, with a clear and traceable provenance.
Such transparency and continuity are particularly rare for an instrument of this category.
Sale information
Available for viewing by appointment in Switzerland.
Due to its weight of 552 kg, dismantling, transport and installation must be carried out by a specialized piano moving company.
Numerous detailed photographs are included with this listing.
The restoration estimate can be provided to genuinely interested buyers.
Asking price: €60,000 – open to discussion after viewing the instrument.
A rare opportunity to acquire a true Bösendorfer Imperial 290 with a unique history and exceptional provenance.
Contact:
+41 79 925 25 52
audrey.fortwengler@gmail.com
