May 16, 2012 3:33:17 PM EDT
| HISTORY |
| Henri Selmer Signature series saxophones |
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This is the first series of Selmer saxophone ever seen. It is not stamped as a Model 22, but has many of the same attributes as the model 22 and is clearly an earlier vintage instrument. The Selmer web site states in the history time-line that the modele 22 c-melody, was launched in 1922 and the alto was the first saxophone launched in 1921. However, the modele 22 saxophones all have serial numbers over 2000, suggesting that something came before the modele22. These instrument with serial numbers between 0-1100 clearly shows that Selmer did indeed make an instrument before the modele 22. I'm very excited about this find and think it has historical importance.
The bell has the following stamping:
Henri Selmer (cursive script signature)
4 PLACE DANCOURT PARIS
MEDAILLE DOR ST LOUIS 1904
(serial number)
My research has shown that Selmer was presented with a GOLD METAL in the 1904 World's Fair for their clarinet design. However, according to the Selmer web site in France, the tenor saxophone ‘C Melody’ was launched in 1922. The engraving on the bell as MEDAILLE DOR ST LOUIS 1904 would most certainly be showing off their accolades from winning the Gold Metal in the 1904 World's Fair as this was an extremely prestigious award for musical instrument makers at this time period in history. These early vintage Selmer saxes were probably considered as prototypes for the Modele 22 and were heavily influenced by the original Adolphe Sax design (probably made between 1900-1920). Since they are not recognised officially by Selmer today, they were probably not a main line production horn. Regardless, these instruments were definitely the first series production Selmer saxophones and represent the start of an important cascade of events that would go on to shape the course of modern day culture in America and across the world.
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Serial Numbers & Year - 1-1016 / 1900-1921
Source: saxquest.com
This post was edited by Melvin Llord (Admin) at May 16, 2012 3:34:31 PM EDT
