As I recall, the general rule of thumb around here is that a used mandolin is reasonably priced at 2/3 to 3/4 of its new price. Given that a new Ellis F5 goes for around $11,500, that would suggest that the reasonable range for a used Ellis should be between roughly $7,600 and $8,600. So even if this is a weak market, I would think that used Ellis F5s that are selling in the $8,000 to $9,000 range are still a bit above average in terms of resale value. (Of course, that 2/3 to 3/4 rule of thumb may or may not be applicable to higher-end mandolins, but as a basis of comparison, it's worth looking at.)
I don't know Tom's actual production numbers, but based on my observation
here, he has only been making about 18 Ellis mandolins per year over the last year or so (the Pava line seems to be much more active in terms of output). I do agree Ellis is a "hot brand", but it's a very small market for that kind of price.
My guess is that this is just a random couple of sellers who happen to be moving their Ellis mandolins at the same time. No larger pattern at play. But I could be wrong.
I do admit to having to fight the urge to buy 'em all.
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