[clareman]

I'm thinking about getting a silver plated 82Z, but I'm curious as to how much the silver tarnishes and how long it takes to tarnish.

Plus I want to know what it would take to have the tarnish cleaned off.

Thanks

 

[patseguin]

I'm sure Joe can chime in here.

 

[thejoyofsax]

I've had my silver Z tenor for two years now and it still looks pretty good. With semi-regular polishing (with a silver-finish cloth, one is included) the finish holds up pretty well, especially if it is kept in the case when not in play.

Over time, I think most finishes tend to naturally lose some luster, and there isn't a whole lot that can be done. I believe that using any kind of liquid or gel tarnish remover would probably damage the finish rather than help it. More experienced techs could chime in on this.

 

[clareman]

Anyone else have any opinions?

 

[SaxyAcoustician]

I've had silver Yamahas since the late 90s. As long as you store your horn in your case when you're not using it, it shouldn't tarnish much.

Of course, if you live in New York City all bets are off. The air is so bad there.

I must say though that I don't mind the look of a tarnished silver horn.

 

[clareman]

Thanks for the advice

 

[Joe Jazz]

I usually polish mine every few months using Hagerty's or Yamaha silver polish and a cotton rag. I use q-tips to get the hard to reach areas. The Hagerty's does a better job if you wait until it's heavily tarnished. It also has the R-22 in it, which helps keep the tarnish away longer. If you leave it in the case with the 3M strips you won't have to polish as often.........you can get the strips and Hagerty's from WW&BW online.