[prezden]

Could anyone tell me what model a 1926 Buffet with a sn. 1544 would be. I haven't seen it so I don't know what other markings are on it.

Thanks

 

[bandmommy]

What is it? It's OLD. Sorry, couldn't resist!

Have you checked out clarinetperfection yet? Steve might have something on there that could help.
He has a pretty good list of serial numbers and model information.

 

[prezden]

Hi Bandmommy
I did look on ClarinetPerfection. All I could find was the 1926 date correlating to the sn.1544 but no info as to what model it might be.

 

[AndyW]

as far as I know, Buffet only made professional-level clarinets back then, i have one from about 1935 , it has no "model number" , only the serial no. & Buffet logos, but i've heard it described as a "pre-R13". Check it's Boehm system or Albert system,and i think all French clarinets from then should be low pitch A=440 Hz, but best check.

-A-

 

[Steve Stockham]

I have one of these early Buffet clarinets. The serial number puts my clarinet as being manufactured in 1925. These are pre-R13 but they are professional level clarinets. I have recently had mine re-padded and the wood re-oiled (my tech said it was getting pretty dry) so it is now in perfect shape. There was no "model" name so to speak. The one really unique and obvious characteristic of the keywork is that the register key curves around the horn!

 

[prezden]

Thanks for all your feed-back. I really appreciate it.

cheers- preston

 

[bandmommy]

The wrap around register key is pretty cool. It's not 'unique' to Buffet clarinets though.
I have a Buffet, Farney, and J.W. Pepper Albert systems with one. It might be safe to say that it was pretty much 'standard equipment' on clarinets manufactured before 19XX.
I'm not sure when everyone went to the register vent above the F thumb hole.

 

[Steve Stockham]

This clarinet that I have is not an Albert system one! With the exception of the register key wrapping around, everything is pretty much modern Boehm system.

 

[bandmommy]

No need to get pissy. I only wanted to clarify that the wrap around register key was not unique to Buffet clarinets.
The examples I used were just that. Examples of different brands that just happened to be Albert system horns.
They did carry this feature over when they started producing Boehm system instruments. That's why I use the date 19XX as there was an overlap while they made the transition between systems.