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This listing is for a vintage Buffet Crampon Bb soprano clarinet. The serial number is difficult to make out, but I think it is 4156. That would indicate a c.1929 production date. At that time Buffet did not have all of the named models that they do now. Buffet clarinets from this era are generally referred to as "pre-R13". This was a professional level instrument of its day. It is made of grenadilla wood.

This instrument is being sold as is for repair/restoration. It is not currently in playing condition. The immediate reason for this is a missing spring for the alternate Eb/Bb key, but there could be other problems as well. The buyer should plan on it needing repairs, possibly up to a full overhaul, to be made playable. Below are details about its condition. I strive to be as thorough as possible, but please understand that this instrument is nearly a century old, so there might be something that I miss.

There is a hairline crack in the bell, but it is tight, and doesn't extend to either the tenon or bottom of the flare. It looks like there was a crack pinned on the upper joint. I don't see any other cracks or crack repairs. There are no chips to tenons or tone holes. The bell flare ring and tenon rings are all tight. The keys are all moving freely and rebounding properly when released (except for the aforementioned one with a missing spring). I notice that there are locking screws on the post...I'm not sure if those are original or not. They might be a modification. The pads don't look all that bad, and a simple suction test produces a good seal, but I would plan on new pads just to be on the safe side. It could definitely use a good cleaning, oiling of the wood, buffing of the keys, and lubrication of the mechanisms. 

This instrument comes in a modern Protec brand case. It shows wear and tear, but it is in solid useable condition. The inside is odor free. The zippers work properly

There is no mouthpiece, ligature, cap, nor any other accessories included. 


Please feel free to message me with any questions.

Thanks again for looking!