Used E.R. Pfretzschner Model R301E4 Full Size Violin - With Case and Bow

FEATURES

• Handmade in Mittenwald, Bavaria, West Germany
• Traditional Antonius Stradivarius pattern
• Student-to-intermediate level 4/4 violin
• Solid hand-carved spruce top
• Solid flamed maple back, ribs, neck, and hand-carved scroll
• Graduated hand-carved construction for improved tonal response
• Warm, balanced, resonant sound with excellent projection
• Traditional shaded brown to reddish-gold spirit varnish
• Premium ebony fingerboard, pegs, nut, saddle, and chinrest (production dependent)
• Hand-fitted maple bridge professionally adjusted by Scherl & Roth
• Dual interior labels identifying E.R. Pfretzschner and Roth Shop Adjustment
• Traditional hide-glue construction with internal corner blocks and linings
• Excellent choice for advancing students, private study, youth orchestra, chamber ensembles, and community orchestra performance
• Includes original hard-shell case and brand-new traditional wood bow

DESCRIPTION

The E.R. Pfretzschner Model R301E4, serial number 61544XX, is a beautifully handcrafted German violin produced in Mittenwald, Bavaria (West Germany) and distributed throughout North America by Scherl & Roth. Manufactured primarily between the 1960s and 1990s, the R301E4 was designed as a faithful interpretation of the classic Antonius Stradivarius pattern, combining traditional German craftsmanship with dependable construction for advancing musicians.

Each violin was individually hand built using carefully selected tonewoods and professionally shop adjusted before sale. Authentic examples typically feature two interior labels: one identifying the instrument as a handmade E.R. Pfretzschner violin and a second "Roth Shop Adjusted" label, confirming its final inspection and setup by Scherl & Roth technicians. This example dates to 1997 and was professionally set up through Scherl & Roth in Elkhart, Indiana.

The violin features a solid hand-carved spruce top paired with beautifully figured solid flamed maple back, ribs, neck, and hand-carved scroll. The carefully graduated plate construction, traditional hide-glue assembly, and professionally fitted bridge produce a warm, focused tone with excellent resonance, balanced response across all four strings, and strong projection suitable for solo and ensemble performance.

Finished in a traditional shaded brown to reddish-gold varnish, the R301E4 exhibits the classic appearance associated with fine German violins. Premium ebony fittings—including the fingerboard, nut, saddle, and chinrest—provide long-term durability, while professionally dressed fingerboard geometry and proper string spacing contribute to excellent playability.

This particular violin displays the typical edge ("rim") wear expected from normal use, along with light surface scratches throughout the instrument. There are no cracks, structural damage, or significant dents. Our technician has adjusted the violin to General Playing Condition, ensuring it is ready for its next musician. The package includes the original hard-shell case and a brand-new traditional wood bow.

Because of its exceptional craftsmanship, attractive appearance, dependable construction, and warm, resonant voice, the E.R. Pfretzschner R301E4 remains a highly desirable instrument for advancing students, private instruction, school orchestra programs, youth symphonies, chamber ensembles, community orchestras, and collectors of quality vintage German violins.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Manufacturer: E.R. Pfretzschner
• Model: R301E4
• Instrument Type: Violin
• Size: 4/4 (Full Size)
• Serial Number: 61544XX
• Country of Manufacture: Germany
• Region: Mittenwald, Bavaria (West Germany)
• Approximate Production Date: 1997
• Construction: Handmade
• Design Pattern: Antonius Stradivarius
• Skill Level: Student to Intermediate
• Top: Solid Hand-Carved Spruce
• Back: Solid Flamed Maple
• Ribs: Solid Flamed Maple
• Neck: Maple
• Scroll: Hand-Carved Maple
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Pegs: Ebony or Caspari Adjustable Pegs (production dependent)
• Nut: Ebony
• Saddle: Ebony
• Chinrest: Ebony
• Tailpiece: Ebony or Composite with Fine Tuners (setup dependent)
• Bridge: Hand-Fitted Seasoned Maple
• Soundpost: Spruce
• Bass Bar: Traditional Spruce
• Construction: Graduated hand-carved plates with hide-glue assembly, internal corner blocks, and linings
• Finish: Traditional Spirit Varnish
• Color: Shaded Brown to Reddish-Gold
• Overall Length: Approximately 23.5 in. (597 mm)
• Body Length: Approximately 14 in. (356 mm)
• Scale Length: Approximately 328 mm
• Intended Use: Private Study, School Orchestra, Youth Symphony, Chamber Music, Community Orchestra, Solo Performance
• Condition: Typical edge wear and light surface scratches; no cracks or structural damage; adjusted to General Playing Condition