[jaysz]

http://southjersey.craigslist.org/msg/2762776322.html

Can anyone tell me would this be an R13 or if not exactly
what would the classification be, also if someone could give me
an opinion on the quality of the horn I would appreciate that.
I would be upgrading from an Evette Schaeffer plastic clarinet
my dad bought me about 38 years ago. As always thanks a bunch
, Jay.

 

[Raphyel]

If it is truly 1939, then its pre r13...I would get the serial . R13s start around 50k. There are some other tell tale signs if you can get some better pics also.

 

[Raphyel]

I have 4 pre 1970 r13s right now, and the one from 1949 was the best player I have had.

 

[ericdano]

I'd save your money and wait until a real R13 shows up. You can get a good one for $1000 or less.

 

[bradfordlloyd]

In addition to the date being pre-R-13, you can always check the A and G# keys on the upper joint. On R-13s, they are separate (i.e., do not share a post). There are a couple other tell-tale signs as well.

IMHO, pre-R-13s are no better on average than other vintage horns of the period. It was really the R-13 with the polycylindrical bore that set Buffet apart. Hold out for a real R-13 if you're looking for the Buffet experience.

 

[Bootman]

If you want a killer Buffet then go for the RC models!

 

[spike421]

From what I can see, the A and Ab-G# keys share a post (3 posts/2 keys), which would make it pre R-13.

 

[Raphyel]

Actually there were some subtle changes. I had an R13 that had the cylindrical keyguide, but the A and Ab-G# keys shared a common post. There are some transitional Buffets out there.

Heres an example:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Buffet-Pre-...711?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item58906b8d6f

 

[trice]

Yes, I have noticed that any Buffet on eBay in the late 40k serial # range is now called a "transitional" model, regardless of the features. Unfortunately, the most important change cannot be seen - the bore.

The horn the OP is looking at needs an overhaul. That is $500 in my neck of the woods, so the horn is worth no more than $100 to me.

 

[jaysz]

I would like to thank everyone for the help, and I have decided to pass on this horn,
thanks again. Jay.