Author: jasperbay
Date: 2010-10-18 21:25
Lelia is correct about most Signet Specials being made in the 1970's, 80's and 90's. It's difficult to find good serial # info on Selmer USA clarinets ( the Conn/Selmer site's saxophone #'s cannot be used), but the gentleman at ClarinetPerfection.com has accumulated 30 or so #'s and dates so we can get to the nearest half-decade or so.
Signet and wood Bundy USA clarinet production started shortly after WW2, say 1948, and continued to 1995 or so. Most were sold during the 70's, 80's and 90's. In the 70's and 80's, they came in the square black plastic case. Those in a tan leather case look to be 1960's vintage, barring the obvious, check the ser. # to be sure.
Dori's recollection of thicker plating on Soloists is interesting too, since I've noticed that many Signets and wood Bundys have very thick nickel plate, seems to never wear, even when the brand logos are being worn off the wood!
I have to confess that the main reason I've thought my Signets were from the 50's is the shared post on the A/G# keys. Most makers went to 4 posts around 1950 (for no real reason, as far as I can tell). The Selmer USA clarinets continue to use the 3 post arrangement clear into the 90's, and beyond? Got to give them credit for sticking to their guns. I've always thought the Boosey & Hawkes 4 post arrangement had character too!
Clark G. Sherwood
Post Edited (2010-10-18 21:35)
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