Buffet, R13, Vintage B Flat Clarinet
A good condition vintage Buffet R13 Bb clarinet, which is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. This Bb has matching serial nos. F66269, which dates to 1961. Back then this was the finest professional instrument Buffet made, with unstained, matched wood. This was before the introduction of the ""Prestige" range, which effectively downgraded the standard R13 considerably. These days R13's are made from inferior quality wood which is stained to hide imperfections. Buffet are currently attempting to recreate this Gold standard of manufacture in their current "Vintage R13" range please go to www.buffetcrampon.com for more details. All pieces are matching and original, and stamped "Buffet". The Silver plated keywork is in good condition throughout, but there is spot wear and also some wear to the ring fingers, the worst affected key is RH low F#/C#. The wood is also in good used condition, with no cracks or repairs. The m'piece is the original Buffet C in ebonite which is much used, the new owner would be best advised to choose a Vandoren m'piece, or something similar. The original case shows some stains to the interior, and exterior scuffs, but still latches well, and protects the clarinet.