Matched Pair of Buffet UK Stamp RC Clarinets
A very fine condition pair of Buffet RC "UK" stamp clarinets, which are a commission sale for Clarinets Direct. When Alan Lucas became managing director of Buffet UK Ltd he made strenuous efforts to offer outstanding value, well manufactured clarinets to the UK market. At the forefront of this were the famous "UK" stamp model Buffet RC, R13 and E&S [E13] clarinets which set a new bench mark of affordable quality in the UK, which ultimately resulted in Boosey & Hawkes acquisition of Buffet. Back then the RC was the newest, most expensive model offered by Buffet, with unstained, hand selected matched wood. The RC was introduced in 1975, and these early production models are considered amongst the finest made.
The matching serial nos. on the Bb are 174565 which dates to 1977. There is no damage to the wood, which is crack and repair free, and in fine order. The Nickel Silver plated key work is good throughout, without much wear. The pads are used tan leather, and this instrument has been down to our workshop to have 3 tenon corks replaced as necessary. All pieces are matching and original. The A has matching serial numbers 166201, it dates to 1976. Like the Bb it has used tan leather pads and Nickel Silver plated key work in good throughout. There are 2 barrels of 64.5mm, and 66mm. The supplied double case is the original in used condition, with dust cover. These instruments plays extremely well, with an excellent scale and very fine intonation.