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Selmer Clarinets Serial Numbers: Tips and Tricks for Collectors and Players



There are many different types of clarinets built by Selmer (Paris), each with their own special features. But there were also changes during the production. Here's the serial number list of these clarinets, with the addition of a list of the various bores and barrel sizes. MRO saxophones will complement these with actual measurements.(Source: Steven Moens - Belgium)


There is no definitive informationavailable as to when particular types of instruments, such as the Model 55, theRadio Improved, Balanced Tone, etc., began insofar as serial numbers areconcerned. Unlike some of the saxophone models, each clarinet is clearly markedas to its model.




Selmer Clarinets Serial Numbers



This Bb clarinet has obscured serial numbers, but it is possible that the serial number on the lower joint is LXX61, which dates to 1931-2, this would certainly fit with the ownership characteristics of Bob Wilber's collection. The clarinet has seen extensive use; there is some wear to the key work, which has been re-plated in Silver at some point. The barrel has a repaired crack, and there is unrepaired damage to the bottom of the lower joint, which is hidden when the clarinet is assembled. See photos. This clarinet demonstrates extremely fine intonation and evenness across the range. There appears to be additional tuning work also to the bore of the upper joint, or, it may be that there are repairs to internal cracks. We have just fully overhauled in finest Pisoni fish skin pads, and the clarinet is sold with our full 1 year warranty.


The A clarinet has serial numbers, L1730, which dates to 1931. The clarinet has also seen much use. Like his friend, and mentor, Benny Goodman, Bob Wilber played much classical clarinet repertoire for som eof which he needed this A. Again this clarinet demonstrates extremely fine intonation and evenness across the range. There appears to be additional tuning work also to the second supplied barrel, which is of more modern Selmer type but has been adapted to tune this pair. We have just fully overhauled in finest Pisoni fish skin pads, and the clarinet is sold with our full 1 year warranty.


HiI have a silver plate selmer with two numbers. One on the bell (No 14234) and one on lower body (6424 C)Which is the serial number and what is this horn please ?Thanks for info and helpRegardsEd


I just picked up a Series III, serial number 645147. The previous owner says it was bought new in 2013/14, but what I found says 2003/04. Looed at the neck but could not find any numbers. Only on the bottom of bell. Is this standard?


They were all made in France (and have French-assigned serial numbers), but about half of them were then assembled in the USA and have different lacquer and engraving. You can use the same serial chart for any Selmer Paris saxophone.


The "Reference 54" refers to the modern recreation of their legendary Mark VI, which began production in 1954. When we received the first of these horns, we conducted extensive play test comparisons. When comparing this horn to Mark VI's with serial numbers ranging from 5-digits to the last of the line, this horn stacked up magnificently and, at the very least, gave every Mark VI a run for the money. This horn is sure to reveal itself as a solid modern alternative to the Mark VI with a consistency that had, up to this point, been considered unattainable.


Selmer T-Series Alto Clarinet. We are researching the details for this beauty. We believe it's manufacture date to be pre-1931. Even tough there is a "T" preceding the serial number, we do not believe it to be the 1963 vintage. We've noticed that earlier alto clarinets used the "T" prefix; we're attempting to get some accurate info. This clarinet with silver plating is in glorious condition. The upper and lower joints have matching serial numbers. The neck has a 24 stamped and the bell has a 4 stamped.. The wood is amazing and sets a standard for what 'pemium' means. A repad would certainly be recommended if you are going to put this one into regular play. The only negative is that the original owner removed (and lost) the lyre holder so, marching with this may be a chore. 2ff7e9595c


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