Baroque neck question

[Ron1]

Can anyone tell me how uncommon an original baroque neck is on a violin? Would the same instrument be more valuable or less valuable if it still had the original baroque neck? Thanks for any insight on this question. Ron1

[Michael Darnton]

It's not real common; it's got definite cool factor. Baroque players like them because they're original, but finding a baroque player with any money is an uphill battle. :-) If at all possible, I'd leave it that way, set it up baroque, and try to find a customer for it. It would be best if the neck was still thick, as original, though, which it might not still be.

[Ron1]

Thanks for the clarification- I'm afraid I'm not real well-versed. I didn't even know there were still "Baroque players." I guess I was asking the question as regards collectors, rather than players. How do I tell if the neck is still original (thick)?

[Michael Darnton]

Got a photo?

Yup--there are people who play old music on original instruments set up the old way, all gut strings, no chinrests, and everything. Probably not in Wisconsin, though---there aren't even that many in Chicago. People tell me the Northwest is teeming with them.

[Ron1]

No photos right now, but will try in near future. Thanks again for helping out those of us who are not so familiar with violins, making, etc. I'm recently retired & finally have some time to pursue an old interest- trying to learn as much as possible- maybe even try my hand at making. At my age they won't be Strads, but I think would be very satisfying.