The Clarinet BBoard

The Clarinet BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Previous Message | Next Message

Re: age & model of a Selmer clarinet

Author: SteveG_CT
Date: 2012-12-31 16:22

David Niethamer wrote:

> The serial number of my instrument is K9999. The Selmer list
> shows no "K" listings, only numerical listings up to 9999
> (1931, which seems a bit old, given the age of my colleague).
> So, I wonder if anyone can tell me if this "K" designation
> changes the age of the instrument from what is listed on
> woodwind.org, and whether this instrument is one of the
> "Centered Tone" or "Balanced Tone" (or some other designation).
> If it were to be cleaned up, it would be desirable to any
> player who was looking for a Selmer clarinet of about that age.

This is an older Selmer clarinet that pre-dates both the "Centered Tone" (started with late N-series serial numbers) and the "Balanced Tone" (started in the mid L-series serial numbers). This one likely dates to around 1930. Is there anything stamped underneath the Selmer logo on the upper joint? If this is indeed a "named" model it will most likely be stamped "R.I." (Radio Improved) given the late K-series serial number. It is also just as likely that it will not be stamped with anything other than the basic Selmer logo.

The K-series Selmers are considered to be desirable by those of us who appreciate vintage clarinets. I own one myself and it is a fine player. If your clarinet is in good shape I don't think you will have much difficulty selling it if that is your aim. Keep in mind that based on your description it will need a complete overhaul in order to become a playable instrument so it will need to be priced accordingly.

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics