Keilwerth 1954 ‘The New King’ Bb Tenor, #25,9xx (Archived)

1954-55 Keilwerth "The New King" Tenor

Price: SOLD
  • Year:  1954-55
  • Make:  Keilwerth
  • Model: The New King
  • Status:  SOLD
  • Finish: Factory Re-Lacquer?
  • Serial Number: 25,9xx

Here we go! I am biased toward loving Keilwerths...
With the great JK WING-KEYGUARD (metal) and with Ser#25,9xx, JK dating dates it to the mid 50s, Overall the horn is good shape. It has had a few player upgrades and alterations (Selmer thumbrest!, pants guard replaced). It is a deep honey lacquer at 75%, that I cannot place as Original; however, the engraving looks great--not buffed away. It arrived with some pretty nice pads. I'll inspect the whole sax and my sure she's able to rock and blow the doors down.

SOUND: JK is known for full body, and spread harmonics. This one is a little less spread due to a smaller bored bell.

REPAIRS/Modifications: You can see a few repairs or modification to the sax. 1) the pants guard added(ask me about gold plating this to match the front guard), 2) the bell guard being the brighter gold (read on), 3) the octave thumb rest was moved to the side for better comfort while seated(I approve this move), 4) the thumbrest replaced into a Selmer hook. (I believe the original thumb hook, like a Martin size, is still in the case).

CASE: it comes in an early Protec model, which is a molded wrap, with a fake leather stitch over a hard case mold. Works well in good condition.

COOL STORY: It's a rare treat to have been taught by The Sarge (father of WWS). I studied his efforts so well that I can recognize his work. I was shocked on arrival because I could see it!!! This was worked on by Sarge! It received his Premium Rebuild with extra special green ultra suede and teflon linkages. It was too wild of a coincidence not to check in with the owner I got this from. He had to verify with another fellow prior. YEP. Sure enough, it was. I can almost remember Sarge talking about this sax and goldplating the bell guard!
Although I can date the rebuild to roughly 8-9years ago, the sax arrived playing great with an "A-" grade and the pads showing little use. Talk about how good Sarge's work was! How's your sax doing after 8 years? I will give the case a full tune up, and adjustment, and ensure she's at an A+ grade.
Item #:WWS1QE7.9E5.3151.6-98