Make | Martin | Price/Date | $3500 / 2016 | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Model | Handcraft Master "Typewriter" |
Finish | Gold Plate | |
Pitch | Eb Alto | Keyed Range | Low Bb to altissimo F | |
Serial | 97478 | Bell Keys | Split | |
Year | 1930 | Tone Holes | Soldered; straight | |
Source Link | GetASax.com | Octave Key | Over |
For sale as of May 10, 2016! Go buy it!
The Martin Typewriter is the quintessential aesthete’s saxophone. It has a unified design concept that makes it a harmonious whole like no other horn. Every key touch is a circular pearl, and there are many other little design elements to that combine to make this a striking piece. This rare example is in near mint condition with virtually no wear at all and nearly 100% original gold plate intact. It has gorgeous and extensive special engraving on the bell including a little portrait of a cabin with mountains and a lake!
Besides being rare and fabulous, this horn also has a fresh high-end overhaul and it plays amazingly well, with a sweet, lush, thick, lyrical tone that is unique to Martin saxophones. This would be the perfect alto for any kind of lyrical alto playing – big band, ballads, section playing, or even wind band. The typewriter style keywork makes it slower to get around, so this is not a main alto for a pro player who practices 4 hours a day, because then the ergonomic quirks would become troublesome, but for most kinds of players, it’s just a lot of fun.
Whether you’re a player or collector, this is a very special horn, and it should make someone very happy!