Buescher True Tone Series III

1926 Buescher True Tone Series III Alto Saxophone – Serviced – Vintage Case & Certificate

A very attractive 1926 Buescher True Tone alto saxophone, made in Elkhart, Indiana, USA.

Serial number 220416 dates the instrument to 1926, and its features place it in the group commonly referred to by collectors as the True Tone Series III.

This is a particularly characterful example, supplied with an exceptionally well-preserved vintage case and an original Buescher guarantee certificate.

Most importantly, following a careful service and regulation, it is now playing beautifully throughout the range.

Service work

The saxophone has been stripped down and carefully serviced, including:

• Keywork removed
• Body and keywork thoroughly cleaned
• Springs repaired/replaced where necessary
• Corks replaced where required
• Keywork refitted and lubricated
• Spring tensions checked and adjusted
• Main keywork regulated
• Instrument cleaned and polished
• Full play-test following the work

The result is a very responsive vintage alto with an easy-speaking low register and a strong, characterful sound.

Pads

The saxophone appears to have been repadded relatively recently.

I cannot confirm the manufacturer of the pads, so I would rather not make claims about their make, but they are currently in good usable condition, have been checked during the service and are sealing well.

The instrument is currently playing properly and can be heard in the playing video included with the listing if on eBay. If viewing on Reverb please contact me and I will send you it.

Forked Eb trill

As part of the setup, the forked Eb trill key has been set to remain closed.

This is a reversible adjustment often made to early saxophones because leaving this vent permanently open can adversely affect intonation, while the trill itself is rarely required by modern players.

If the buyer would prefer the mechanism returned to its original operating arrangement, I am happy to do this before collection/postage.

Finish and condition

The saxophone has been relacquered at some point in its life, possibly more than once.

As a result, the lacquer varies noticeably in colour and tone across the instrument depending on the light and viewing angle. I actually think this gives it plenty of vintage character, but please study the photographs carefully so you can judge the cosmetic condition for yourself.

I have concentrated on getting the instrument mechanically sound and enjoyable to play rather than trying to disguise its age or previous history.

Vintage case and guarantee certificate

One of the nicest features of this example is the remarkably well-preserved vintage case.

The interior presents extremely well for its age, there is no unpleasant old-case smell, and the hinges and catches are working. The catches do need to be lined up carefully when closing, which is worth mentioning given their age.

Also included is an original Buescher guarantee certificate, a lovely period item which makes the package particularly appealing to anyone who appreciates the history of these instruments.

Playing video

A playing demonstration is included so that you can hear the actual saxophone being offered rather than having to judge it purely from photographs.

Play-testing before purchase is also very welcome and encouraged.

Included

The sale includes:

• Buescher True Tone alto saxophone
• Original-style crook/neck
• Vintage hard case
• Original Buescher guarantee certificate

The mouthpiece, harness and stand shown in the photographs/video are not included.

A lovely opportunity to own a 1926 American-made Buescher True Tone, complete with an unusually well-preserved vintage case and period guarantee certificate, that has already been serviced and returned to playing condition.

Collection, inspection and play-testing welcome.