Saxophone Forum


by Josue HC
(1 post)
3 years ago

Kalashen Kleartone Soprano Sax

Hello! I recently was handed down a very old sax that I know nothing about. The markings show it as a Kalashen Kleartone NewYork USA.  The side markings then say PATD SEPT,14,1915  1158489 S P28485 L.   Im thinking of selling it but don't know how much I should be expecting to get. Anyone have any info on this kind of sax or know a value?

Reply To Post [Report Abuse]

Report Abuse

Replies

  1. by historicsaxwhisperer
    (644 posts)

    3 years ago

    Re: Kalashen Kleartone Soprano Sax

    The patent date, the numeric layout, and the letter P in front of the serial number, points to an instrument made by C.G Conn. This is what is called a "Stencil". Back in the 1920s, the saxophone craze had every music store wanting their name on an instrument. So, the saxophone manufactureres used their second line parts and engraved a small number of instruments for whoever was ordering them.

    Here is a post with the same info

    https://cafesaxophone.com/threads/saxophone-kalashens-kleartone-new-york-usa.23573/

    With that very wordy explanation, it is still a Conn, made with a wonderful brass mixture during the 1920s and forward for a good 30 years. This American Brass is why a number of players prefer these older instruments.

    In "As Is" condition, you could get maybe 700 or so. Then the buyer would expect to put another 400 or so into it at minimal. But then it would play wonderfully.

     

    This is just one persons opinion.

    Good Luck!

    Reply To Post