John-Eric Traelnes began his career as a luthier in 1981 and discovered the world of expertise alongside a prominent specialist of the time, Kenneth Warren, in Chicago.
Throughout his career, he has photographed and documented numerous instruments and bows and participated in many conferences organized by various luthier associations worldwide, such as ASLA, EILA, VDGB, ALADFI, GLAAF, etc.

Today, he collaborates with several internationally recognized experts, most of whom are members of the International Entente of Luthiers and Bowmakers, of which he has also been a member for nearly 25 years. Each of these experts often specializes in a particular school (Italian, French, German, Dutch, etc.), both in bows and the instruments of the quartet. Together with his colleague and partner Serge Boyer, an expert near the Court of Appeal of Paris, he regularly offers appraisal days at his workshop in Lausanne. (More information at ww.violindocs.ch)

If you wish to obtain a certificate of authenticity for your instrument or bow, it is essential that it be issued by one of these internationally recognized experts. After carefully studying
your items, John-Eric Traelnes will determine whether a certificate of authenticity and/or a valuation certificate is recommended, then will refer to the most appropriate expert(s) based on the origin of your instruments.

The certificate of authenticity indicates the origin of the instrument, its complete description (measurements, types of materials used) and includes photographs. This document is issued by an internationally recognized expert. Fees for a certificate of authenticity often start around a minimum of CHF 300, and for more valuable items, approximately 3 to 5% of their estimated value.

The valuation certificate is requested by insurance companies at the time of contract subscription. It represents the “replacement” value of your item in case of damage or theft and serves as the basis for reimbursement in case of loss, theft, or total damage. In the case of repair/restoration, the document also allows for consideration of any depreciation.

This certificate is issued by John-Eric Traelnes himself or, if necessary, by one of the experts with whom he regularly collaborates. Fees for an insurance valuation certificate vary according to the research time required: they often start around a minimum of CHF 200, and for items valued over CHF 10,000, approximately 1% of the estimated value of the item.

We only undertake these services if we believe we can provide you with an accurate report.

Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions or to schedule an evaluation appointment.