Slightly different perspective from a long-time MT2 fan. I've probably owned 5-6 MT2s -- all purchased minty used through the Cafe -- over the years. Then, MAS would strike, I'd sell and try something else for a while. But I always missed the MT2 after a while -- as it tone-wise and aesthetically pushes all the right buttons for me. Usually I'd lose $200-$300 in the deals, but I figured that was the cost of getting to play a cool "new" mando for a year or so.
Then, Collings introduced its vintage case and the cremona burst. I realized that buying new would assure I'd never recoup anything close to original price, but I didn't care. I contacted a Collings dealer I have always respected when I saw on their website a beautiful, quilted MT2 in cremona with the new Collings case. I traded in my MT2 and obviously accepted slightly less than it may have fetched selling on the Cafe in order to snag this particular new instrument. The shop was terrific to work with all the way through and very transparent.
That was almost a year ago, and now, finally, I know that I've reached the "top of the mountain" in terms of pride of ownership in calling this cremona MT2 my last ever sample of this wonderful mandolin!
It's my first ever brand new MT2, and the case alone (an $800 value) -- every time I admire its design and craftsmanship -- is inspiring to me to "earn" this fine instrument by becoming a better player! (IMHO, Bill's last great innovation was his cases -- and they are truly a testament to his vision and memory as a true artist who cared deeply about quality and beauty. If you've ever had one in your hands, you know what I'm talking about!)
So if you are in a space as I was, and really, really know that that the new mando you are buying will be with you a long, long time, then the depreciation issue becomes a moot point. I felt great pride in filling out the Warranty Card and receiving back from Collings a personalized "thank you" letter for the purchase. My MT2 quest is over.
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