Klarinet Archive - Posting 000691.txt from 1995/06

From: "Edwin V. Lacy" <el2@-----.EDU>
Subj: Value of an old pair of clarinets?
Date: Thu, 29 Jun 1995 00:01:46 -0400

Several years ago I came into possession of a pair of clarinets. I am
not sure I want to sell them, but I wonder if anyone has any idea about
their possible value. I'm sure they are of interest to no one as
instruments to play, but some collector might find them interesting.

There is a matched set, A and Bb, Buffet clarinets, *Albert system*, in a
double case. The case is original, and in good condition. The bodies are
one-piece. There is a repaired crack in one of them, and there are
small cracks, unrepaired, in both the bells. In addition to the Buffet
logo, each bell is stamped, "Carl Fischer, New York," and "LP." I
presume the latter means "low pitch" or A-440. There is one original
barrel in the case, and one newer barrel. There is also an original
mouthpiece and ligature. The mouthpiece also bears the Buffet logo, and
is marked "Evettine."

The instruments are not playable due to the condition of the pads and the
need for some mechanical adjustments to the keywork, but it would not be
too difficult to repair them to good playing condition or to restore
them. There is some tarnishing of the silver plating of the keys, but
there is no rust, corrosion or pitting of the keys.

If anyone has any ideas as to whether these have any value, I would
appreciate it if you would let me know. Thanks very much.

Ed Lacy
el2@-----.edu