Collin-Mézin 4/4 Violin – Paris, France – Early 1900s
This early 20th-century Collin Mezin violin, labelled and signed by the maker, has been fully restored by our expert luthier. With a powerful, brilliant tone and upgraded Pirastro Tonic strings, it’s the perfect choice for soloists, offering excellent projection above an orchestra. Images of the violin during the repair work are available.
This early 20th-century Collin Mezin violin, labelled and signed by the maker, has been fully restored by our expert luthier. With a powerful, brilliant tone and upgraded Pirastro Tonic strings, it’s the perfect choice for soloists, offering excellent projection above an orchestra. Images of the violin during the repair work are available.
This early 20th-century Collin Mezin violin, labelled and signed by the maker, has been fully restored by our expert luthier. With a powerful, brilliant tone and upgraded Pirastro Tonic strings, it’s the perfect choice for soloists, offering excellent projection above an orchestra. Images of the violin during the repair work are available.
Product Information
This exquisite Collin Mezin violin, crafted after the turn of the century, showcases the renowned craftsmanship of the Mezin family, with the son continuing his father’s legacy using the same label. The violin is labelled and signed by the maker, Collin-Mézin, and has been meticulously restored by our skilled luthier, with minor repairs consistent with its age. Images captured during the repair work are available for reference.
The instrument’s sound is what truly sets it apart. Known for its powerful and brilliant tone, this violin is a great choice for soloists, delivering exceptional projection that stands out in orchestral settings. The clarity and brilliance of its sound make it ideal for demanding pieces, such as the Lark Ascending, where its voice will truly shine.
Crafted from a one-piece back of quarter-cut maple with medium flame, the violin's ribs are made of similar wood, while the head is carved from maple with a quieter flame and figure. The front is a beautifully crafted two-piece spruce with medium-width grain, contributing to its brilliant and resonant tone. The violin is finished with a golden yellow varnish that carries subtle orange overtones, adding to its visual appeal.
With ebony fittings and upgraded Pirastro Tonic strings, this full-sized 4/4 violin offers not only superior sound but also lasting durability and playability.
Collin-Mézin (Charles Collin-Mézin Jr.) – Violin Maker
Charles Collin-Mézin Jr. (1870–1934) was a distinguished French luthier who carried on the legacy of his father, Charles Jean-Baptiste Collin-Mézin (1841–1923). After inheriting the family workshop in Paris, he continued producing violins in the same refined French tradition, maintaining the high standards set by his father while adapting to the evolving demands of the early 20th century.
Collin-Mézin Jr.'s violins are known for their excellent craftsmanship, using high-quality spruce and maple, and are often finished with a rich amber or reddish-brown varnish. While his instruments were sometimes made with a more commercial approach than those of his father, they still exhibit meticulous workmanship and strong tonal characteristics, making them well-regarded among musicians and collectors.
Violins from this period, such as this early 1900s example, are appreciated for their clear, projecting tone and responsive playability. The Collin-Mézin name remains a mark of quality, representing the enduring tradition of fine French violin making.
Professional Set-Up
At Bridge Street Violins, we offer a comprehensive professional setup that goes above and beyond the basic factory setup provided by most other shops. Each violin is carefully adjusted by our expert luthier to ensure optimal sound and playability. Depending on the instrument, this setup may include:
Peg adjustment
Fingerboard resurfacing (if necessary)
Top nut adjustment
Sound post and bridge fitting
String height adjustments
Tailored settings for enhanced playing comfort
This service ensures your violin is fully prepared for high-quality performance, tailored to your individual needs. It’s a level of care that sets us apart from other retailers who typically offer a basic factory setup.
How Long Will It Take to Arrive?
In Stock: This is a vintage violin, and we take great care in ensuring it is in excellent condition before dispatch. Your instrument will be inspected and prepared for shipping within 2 working days. If any delays are expected, we will contact you as soon as possible.
Postage Options
Once your violin has been set up to perfection, we offer the following delivery options:
Free Local Collection: You are welcome to collect your instrument free of charge from our workshop near Lincoln.
UK Delivery: We’ll dispatch your violin anywhere in the UK, with a postage charge applied at checkout.
International Delivery: We are happy to arrange international shipping. Please get in touch for an individual quote.
Violin Care Tips
To keep your violin in great condition and ensure it maintains its best sound, we recommend the following care tips:
Storage: Always store your violin in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, as these can affect the wood.
Cleaning: Clean your violin regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust and rosin build-up. Be careful not to touch the varnish with your fingers.
String Care: Check your strings for wear and replace them when necessary. Avoid over-tightening the strings, as this can cause unnecessary stress on the instrument.
Bow Maintenance: Loosen the bow hair after playing and wipe the stick with a dry, soft cloth to remove rosin dust, preventing build-up and protecting the finish.
Customer Support
If you have any questions or need assistance at any point during your purchase or after receiving your violin, our team is here to help. Whether you have inquiries about delivery, setup, or care, feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to assist.
