[sandster]

New stuff. Hmm...
OK, here goes.
So I’ve got this 1931 Buescher alto. The lacquer is pretty spotty, and I‘m thinking of stripping it. I’ve done this to two of my tenors, (Bundys from the
’60s) and I like the outcome. I’m wondering what the finish would look like, the alto being from the early ‘30s. The alto is in great shape, playing-wise. It’s been gone over and adjusted and plays well. If I strip it, I will need to put it all back together, have it regulated again. Probably cost me $100, (I have some great repair guys)! I’ll attach some pics. Except I don’t know how with the new format.
What would you do?

 

[datsaxman]

Hey Sandy

So ... strip it! You like that already, you presumably have the $100, and the finish is already marginal.

Why not?

 

[sandster]

Thanks! I’m really tempted.

 

[BrianMitchellBrody]

You should do what you feel works for you. Personally. I like the old rough finishes as long as its not flaking and just unsightly.

People pay premium prices for a vintage finish on new horns.

 

[sandster]

Thanks for your input, BMB. Interesting thought re. premium pricing. I've decided to do it. My alto will definitely have a "vintage" finish! I'm starting to disassemble the horn this morning. My media blaster is on board. I want to show some before ad after pics. Please, someone, tell me how to attach photos.
Something else I've just noticed: these old saxes have the same finish on the keys, rods, and pad cups as the body; different from the stainless steel of a more modern horn. Should make a neat contrast: old on old?

 

[datsaxman]

Those silver-colored keys from 1950s-1980s are probably "German Silver", either solid or plated.

Neither steel of any sort, nor actual silver. Copper and Nickel alloy. Very durable stuff!

 

[betelsax]

I have a bare-brass Buescher soprano from around that era, and it's properly un-showy and great sounding. Strip it, clean it up, and play out!

 

[Pete Thomas]

I'll attach some pics. Except I don't know how with the new format.

See here:
https://www.saxontheweb.net/help/faq/#upload_images

 

[sandster]

See here:
https://www.saxontheweb.net/help/faq/#upload_images

Thanks! I'll give it a try.

 

[sandster]

It worked! (I think).

 

[sandster]

Just back from the blaster.

 

[datsaxman]

Looks good to me!

 

[datsaxman]

What did you have it blasted with?

 

[sandster]

DSM: The process used is glass beading. Start-up price for machines for this particular process begin around
$15,000. There are some examples and explanations on youtube. The process is very mild. I was surprised when I saw the engraving on the bell. It was quite worn before and seemed to be enhanced after.

 

[datsaxman]

Glass bead blasting is cool. Not nearly so harsh as sand, more so than shells or other fibers.

I think it looks great.

 

[1saxman]

Looks great.

 

[sandster]

Thanks. I think so too. Cost me $30.00 Cdn.
Now comes the real work. I'm quite terrified! Didn't take a before pic of top end.

 

[Dr G]

Thanks. I think so too. Cost me $30.00 Cdn.
Now comes the real work. I'm quite terrified! Didn't take a before pic of top end.

That is looking nice.

And don't worry about putting it back together. There are actually very few ways that all the parts can fit. There is an order of doing things that is common to most horns, and the mechanism has more in common with your other horns than you appreciate.

Enjoy! We look forward to your success (and pictures).

 

[lostcircuits]

Thanks. I think so too. Cost me $30.00 Cdn.
Now comes the real work. I'm quite terrified! Didn't take a before pic of top end.

I have a few horns of the same kind, if you need specific pics, pm me and I'll send you the pics.

 

[sandster]

Wow! Thanks for these comments/suggestions. Now I’m considerably less scared.