Selmer Alto Saxophone. The Dorsey Model
This is a beautiful 1939 Selmer Dorsey model alto saxophone. For those of you who don't know, this is a very rare Selmer. The body tube is all Balanced Action, while the bell is from the earlier Radio Improved models, including retro-fit left hand table and bell to body brace.
The classical Balanced Action floral engraving is beautiful. Â It's pretty clear that this horn was re-lacquered as the engraving is not as sharp as it would have originally been, but it looks like a very old, well done re-lacquer.
Another sign that this is a second series Dorsey model is the sheet metal Low B/Bb key guard with adjustable bumpers, which is soldered over the wire guard. Â Apparently the first run was only a wire guard, much like a Radio Improved or earlier Selmer. The second run of the Dorsey models placed the portrait engraving of a sailboat in the front center of the bell.
The retro-fit Radio Improved left hand table featured on this horn was said to be preferred by Dorsey's sax players over the newer Balanced Action left hand table.
(Serial #: 28xxx)
All of our saxophones come with Pad Magic, Ultimax Key Oil, a MusicMedic.com Microfiber Cloth, a MusicMedic.com Swab, and plated horns come with Tarnishield Strips. No mouthpiece or case included. We do have some older cases, so if you are interested let us know and we'll see what we can find. We recommend purchasing a new sturdy case and can help you find the right one if you would like.
All of our vintage saxophones undergo an Uberhaul, which you can learn more about here. The workmanship on all Uberhauls is guaranteed . All Uberhauled saxophones are eligible for a C.O.A. (Clean Oil and Adjust), which is our yearly service plan that restores instruments to a freshly Uberhauled state, and is also a great time to make further personal adjustments or modifications. Shipping in the lower 48 states is free, but international shipping is also available. We have worked with the postal service to develop the safest possible shipping method so your new saxophone will arrive in excellent condition. Customers are also welcome to come to the Sax ProShop in Wilmington, NC to pick up your new saxophone: take this opportunity to play test your new horn and work briefly with a specialized technician to make some final minor adjustments.
You can hear this at 19:33 in this video: