Bösendorfer 170 Grand Piano – c1989

This Bösendorfer 170 grand piano was hand-built in Vienna around 1989 and comes in a stunning polished palisander rosewood cabinet. This rare finish gives the piano a remarkable visual presence. Bösendorfer combines renowned Viennese craftsmanship with warmth, refinement, and individuality, making this a particularly desirable example.

At 170 cm in length, the Bösendorfer 170 suits private homes, music rooms, and luxury interiors perfectly. It delivers the character and craftsmanship of a handmade Viennese grand piano in a practical size. Bösendorfer bases its model numbers on length in centimetres, making the 170 one of the company’s more compact grands. Despite its dimensions, it offers impressive tonal depth and musical substance. This example impresses both visually and musically. The polished palisander rosewood cabinet creates a striking focal point before a note is played. Its distinctive appearance adds warmth, elegance, and character to any room. At the same time, it delivers the musical quality expected from a handcrafted Bösendorfer.

The piano also benefits from notable provenance. Tom Ford previously owned this instrument. Included in the sale is a matching piano bench built by Coach House Pianos to his own design and specification. This unique detail adds further interest while complementing the piano’s appeal as a serious musical instrument.

Tonally, the Bösendorfer 170 delivers the rich, singing sound for which the marque is famous. The bass provides warmth and depth, while the middle register offers colour and expression. The treble remains clear, refined, and beautifully balanced. Together, these qualities create an intimate yet substantial musical presence. The action feels responsive, sensitive, and highly controllable. Players can shape phrases naturally and explore a wide range of tonal colours. The close connection between touch and sound makes this a deeply rewarding piano to play. A new Bösendorfer 170 in this finish would cost well over £135,000. This example offers exceptional value, combining rare cabinetry, notable provenance, and outstanding musical quality. It will appeal to pianists, collectors, and design-conscious buyers seeking something truly distinctive.