I was in an antique store this weekend and again saw one of these Ruffoni braisers. It’s been there at least a year.
Despite having more copper than I need, I’m tempted to make an offer. Not because it’s thick (It’s not) or hammered, or even because it matches the 14Q stocker I have. My impulse is based on the fact that it would fill a bit of a gap in my batterie–I have large and small copper rondeaux, but none in the 28cm range. The fact that it still has its cover and is dent-free also appeals.
What would you pay?
Thanks.
Harters
(John Hartley - a culinary patriot, cooking and eating in northwest England)
2
The cheapest price on Ebay would be £60. Much more than I can afford (or want to pay) for a new pan, let alone a second hand one. If that’s the going rate, then it’s something I would happily do without.
Considering this similar one new at Williams-Sonoma is $300 USD (same size but with a decorative knob), I would offer between 30% and 50% of the retail price ($90 to $150) depending on the condition.
I would offer $100 and see what they say. They might go to $125 or $135. Not sure if that’s a good deal for you, but it seems fair.
I’m not a big fan of the fancy knob either.
Considering its unique size and the fact that it’s in good condition with its cover intact, I’d say it’s worth making an offer. Since it’s been sitting there for a year, you might have some room to negotiate. I’d suggest starting with an offer around 20-30% below the asking price and see how the seller responds. If it fills a gap in your collection and you’re really drawn to it, it might be worth paying a bit more, but make sure it fits within your budget.
I’d search for one in that size with more copper and a conventional handle. I have a rondeau that size, and it is a work horse. I am glad I waited until it came along.
I have one of those and it is pretty. I also prefer the old handles to the new fussy designs. Having said that I have almost the same size in heavy copper that I use far more often.
But it sounds like you want it so I agree that you should make a lowball offer and as someone who loves to haggle I would start at 50%, but depending on where you are that might be considered insulting by the merchant and they might not counteroffer so $100 is probably a good starting point. I paid far less than that for mine but that was also a long time ago.