Ex-USAF Service Horn: Olds Ambassador Single French Horn (1972)
For sale is a vintage Olds Ambassador Single French Horn, serial number 808677. Manufactured in 1972 at the legendary plant in Fullerton, California, this instrument is a former USAF (United States Air Force) service horn. The Ambassador is famous for being "built like a tank," and this specific unit is a true workhorse that has been maintained for reliability over aesthetics.
This is the ultimate beginner horn for a student who needs durability above all else. It is also an excellent choice for a school program looking for a reliable "marching" or "pep band" horn that can take a beating and still play in tune.
The Olds Ambassador: The "Tank" of Student Horns
Unlike modern student horns that can feel flimsy, the Olds Ambassador was over-engineered.
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California Craftsmanship: Built during the golden era of US brass manufacturing, this horn features Olds’ signature nickel silver bracing and rotor connections, which add structural rigidity and wear resistance.
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Nickel Silver Accents: The nickel silver rotor valve connections and finger buttons are not just for looks; they are harder than brass and resist corrosion from hand contact.
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USAF Provenance: As an Ex-Air Force instrument, this horn was subjected to rigorous maintenance standards. While it shows its history, it was built and maintained to serve.
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Tone: Olds horns are known for a centered, projecting sound that is easy for young players to control.
Specifications & Condition
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Model: Olds Ambassador Single French Horn (A-45)
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Key: Single F (Standard Student Configuration)
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Serial Number: 808677 (Manufactured 1972)
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Origin: Fullerton, California, USA
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Finish: Lacquer (Original, showing wear)
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Valves: 3 Rotary Valves with Nickel Silver connections
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Condition: Workhorse / Player's Condition. This horn has been played. The bell flare is not perfectly even and shows evidence of past dent work. There are minor dings spotted throughout the body and lacquer loss in contact areas.
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Our Service: Our comprehensive service included a full rotor service, chemical clean, and slide alignment. It may not look pretty, but it plays reliably.
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Included: Canvas Hybrid 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.
For the most competitive pricing, financing options, or to discuss a trade-in, please contact us directly!
As always, we invite you to stop by our Houston shop to try this instrument in person. Nothing compares to the experience of a horn in your own hands. 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!
