SOLD - These compare very favorably to the famed Selmer Mark VI, usually ranked #2. Known for its rich tone and smooth action it is a well designed heavy horn, it keeps its adjustment well and is very reliable. The serial number is 8,0xx, which means it was made in 1961. Original Lacquer is about 50% although there are some scratches (see pics) it will be a great value for the money, the G# "pearl" is missing and a few of the bell guard pearls too, we'll see if we can make these blemishes better with some other inserts. The early serial #s are darker in tone and the same holds true for the early Selmers (adding their big $ boost). Included is an original Buffet tan hard case in good solid shape. It will get a "French Standard" rebuild, and leave in the original screw-in, large, flat, metal resos.
Buescher 1967 ‘400 (flower)’ Eb Alto, #457k (Archived)
SOLD - ser # 457xxx, These are highly undervalued models--well respected by those who know, great intonation, better than average ergos. Some labels will call this the 1st Generation Selmer from the buyout. It retains the underslung neck and the bell keys moved back to the left. This example is in very nice condition, Original Lacquer at 98%, and some normal wear on the nickel plated keys. no resolders to mention. There are only a few little dings throughout, they will all be taken care of in the rebuild. They maintain the Buescher warmth but have a bigger sound from their exponential bore and the big bell. Comes in non original case, plastic casing--good, functioning condition. The original snap in system is intact, so I plan to do a complete "Original Buescher" style rebuild, with metal backed-press in pads and then snap in the original metal domes with natural cork throughout.
Buescher 1951 ‘Aristocrat III – Flower’ Eb Alto, #345k (Archived)
SOLD - Original lacquer is great, maybe 85%. Serial number 345k, i really like this model. This is the transitional link, between the aristocrat and the buescher 400. All the original snap in system is intact, so it received a complete "Buescher style rebuild" and it will go for:
Buescher 1950 ‘400 – “Top Hat & Cane”‘ Eb Alto, #333,7xx (Archived)
SOLD - (Consignment Sale: Plays Excellent!) ser # 333,7xx, These are fantastic altos--well respected, better than average ergos. This example is in excellent condition, Original Lacquer, They maintain the Buescher warmed but have a bigger sound from their exponential bore and the big bell. Comes in a nice vintage case. The original snap in system is intact, so Sarge did a complete "Original Buescher" style rebuild, with metal backed-press in pads and then snap in the original metal domes with natural cork throughout...and it will all go for:
Guardala 1990s ‘DG500-SP ‘ Bb Tenor, Silver Plate #003822 (Archived)
SOLD - Sarge's Collection: Another really fantastic German sax is a B&S stencil, for Dave Guardala. I just bought this one, i have been searching for a early serial number Guardala model 500 for some time. The craftsmanship is awesome on these horns. Ergonomics are up there with Keilwerth and Selmer, the materials used are far above par. The sound is unique and falls somewhere in-between a Conn "Chu" Tenor and a Selmer MK VI. Here is the Official Description:
The serial number is below 4000. This sax was manufactured before Guardala's association with LA Sax started, and compromises in the quality of the product began appearing."This professional level Bb Tenor saxophone is fabricated and hand made from 72% formulated Copper alloy yellow brass with full rib post construction and hand hammered bell. All rods are solid nickel silver with stainless steel screws, springs are tempered blue steel and authentic Mother of Pearl key buttons are used throughout. Custom hand made French pads, by Chanu, with metal resonators come standard along with hand engraving on the bell, high F#, plus extensive fine tuning key adjustment screws at all critical points. This horn has triple silver plating finish with meticulous fancy hand engraving on the bell. Upper and lower key stacks are ergonomically designed for smooth, accurate and positive digital feel."
CRB addendum: SERIAL : #03822 (updated 10/2016)
Martin 1935 ‘Handcraft’ Bb Soprano, curved #113k (Archived)
SOLD - Considering the serial number, this is a very very late Handcraft Soprano! One of my favorite sopranos is Martin. These curved ones are super rare! It is keyed to high Eb. The finish may be tricky to say--let's call it a Relacquer with 90% intact. Lacquer was first being used on saxes in this 1934+era. Consider that into the history of the sax. I can not say for certain that this sax was silver or bare brass originally. Perhaps during the rebuild I will be able to see a mark to tell me more history of the sax. It currently does play all the way down to Bb and it has a wamr, curved soprano sound. (See Conn Sound Files). ser #113K dates it to 1935, relacquer finish with mild pitting. NO MAJOR DAMAGE to mention, I don't see anything worth mentioning on that topic. The ring soldered to the thumbrest appears to be an addition after factory build. The body is very clean of dents or past damage. The original case shows wear from 80yrs of age, but some odor spray will help it and I'll take care of that for you.
Martin 1924 ‘Handcraft’ C-Soprano, #42k Silver (Archived)
SOLD - Original silver plate in excellent condition. It was "VIP Scouted" for a customer. Serial #42k, Straight C soprano in beautiful condition. Original case. Martin sopranos are some of Sarge and my favorites! They are well-built in strong metal. Intonation is easy to enjoy and I'll test a few mouthpieces when possible. Item #: WWS9.5ES9.1131.6-98
Martin 1926 ‘Handcraft’ Bb Soprano, Gold Plate #75k (Archived)
SOLD - Serial #75k, Straight Bb soprano in rare, gold plate (worn), lots of silver showing. I might restore the gold. I will review this on arrival and consider the restoration plans. Original case. Martin sopranos are some of Sarge's and my favorites! They are well-built in strong metal. Intonation is easy to enjoy and I'll test a few mouthpieces when possible. 2500-2800 Depending on Gold repair options during rebuild Item #: WWS8.2E4.95.1121.6-0C