Vintage Late '40's Buffet Crampon Professional Clarinet - Pre-R13
For sale is a rare and historically significant vintage Buffet Crampon professional clarinet, serial number 182330. Dating to the period just before the introduction of the legendary R13, this clarinet represents the pinnacle of Buffet's design philosophy from its era. This is their top-line clarinet from back in the day, a fantastic piece of musical history that offers a unique and beautiful voice.
A Glimpse into the Past: Buffet Before the R13
In the late 1940s, Buffet was a world-renowned clarinet maker, building instruments that were cherished for their rich, warm, and sophisticated French sound. Just as the company was evolving its designs, master instrument maker Robert Carrée was about to create his iconic R13 bore. This clarinet is from that moment in time—the culmination of Buffet's original design philosophy, before Carrée's revolutionary influence.
What makes this pre-R13 Buffet so special for a player today:
- A Classic French Sound: The sound of these pre-R13 instruments is often described as being darker, richer, and more open than the later R13's focused and brilliant tone. It is a wonderfully romantic and complex sound, perfect for players who want to stand out with a truly unique vintage voice.
- Impeccable Craftsmanship: As the top-of-the-line model of its era, this clarinet was meticulously hand-crafted with an attention to detail that is evident in its precision and feel. The keywork is solid and the overall build quality is a testament to Buffet's legacy of excellence.
- Historical Significance: This clarinet isn't just an instrument; it's a historical artifact. It offers a tangible connection to the tradition of French clarinet making that paved the way for the R13 and other modern designs.
This vintage Buffet is a fantastic find for a musician who wants a professional-level instrument with a unique voice and a deep connection to the history of the clarinet.
Specifications & Condition
- Model: Vintage Buffet Crampon Professional Clarinet
- Serial Number: 182330
- Approx. Year: 1949-1950 (Vintage)
- Keywork: Nickel plated keys
- Body Material: Grenadilla Wood
- Condition: For it's age, the clarinet is in great condition, and owned by an adult professional musician.
- Our Service: Our comprehensive service included a thorough inspection, precision adjustments, and fine-tuning to ensure optimal playability.
- Included: Come with the original hard case.
Why Choose Fleming Music?
Here at Fleming Instruments, our expert on-site instrument repair workshop guarantees that each instrument we sell is meticulously inspected and fine-tuned before it reaches you. We take pride in offering a 1-year warranty and 2-week return policy on all instruments, giving you peace of mind with your investment. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, so please reach out to us at the shop via phone, email, or website contact: https:// flemingrepair.com/pages/contact. Follow our accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for the latest updates, content, and promotions: https:// linktr.ee/Fleming_Music . We are grateful for your support of our small business and look forward to helping you find the perfect instrument or accessories!
