The pre-war Conn 10M Ladyface models are undoubtedly among the most sought-after vintage saxophones. Added under TS56 is a 10M Ladyface, built in early 1941 (i.e. before the USA was involved in the war). This is another great sax, in original finish. These are becoming increasingly rare, especially in good condition and without major damage. All info and many photos can be found in the ‘Occasion’ section, under TS56.
A pre-war 6M VIII model with serial number 2819xx, year of construction mid-1937. (MRO - ID: AS129) The 6M VIII model was introduced in early 1937. These are the first altos with the ´real´ 6M stamp (and the extra VIII identification). Highly sought-after, because these altos were said to have the best intonation. A pristine specimen is hard to find these days. This specimen most likely has the original lacquer and is in museum condition. The Ladyface engraving is beautiful and crisp-sharp. Extensive info on the early 6M model can be found in the Knowledge Base.
There is a lot of info (and rumours) on the internet about the early 6M alto saxophone model. As far as I can determine after years of online research and reverse engineering on my own stock of saxes, I come to the following conclusions:
In museum condition : a nearly mint alto saxophone Martin Committee II from 1941 (MRO-ID : AS127). Also known as ´Lion and Crown´ due to the fine engraving on the bell. No damage whatsoever. The nickel-plated keywork is still virtually mint: a rarity for a sax that is over 83 years old. This sax has been stored by a collector for many years. Includes the very nice case, case cover, warranty card, lyre holder and end cap. Great full sound: incomparable to a Conn 6M Ladyface.
A very welcome addition to my collection is this Conn 18M stretched soprano. A lacquered example is already present, but this one is silver-plated and in mint condition. The 18M stretched soprano was only built in a small quantity between 1928 and the end of 1929. This soprano can only be played with a special short mouthpiece, the Conn S2. A very rare mouthpiece (I have one available) but Ed Pilliger in London builds fantastic replicas.
The King Zephyr Series 2 is the first actual model of this legendary sax, with the Zephyr bore, double-socket neck and 3-strap ringhook. This one still has the rectangular key layout. You can find this sax under AS125. This is a great sax as an alternative to the much more expensive Super 20! The sax is damage-free, completely overhauled, professionally relacquered and is in virtually new condition. The sound is brighter than a Conn from the same period. Test and compare this Zephyr with a Conn Transitional or a 6M Ladyface, many of which are available at MROsaxophones!
Under AS124 you will find another extremely beautiful and great-sounding Transitional alto saxophone, with the beautiful Art Deco engraving on the bell. This is one of the first Transitional alto saxophones with the low B and Bb in the 6M style, i.e. on equal sides of the bell and with the common keyguard. These were not yet fitted with the pants guard. The left pink plateau is still identical to the Chuberry model. However, the Gis key plateau is flat and without the fingernail pattern as on the earlier models.
Another 1942 Conn 10M Ladyface has been added to the collection. You can find it under TS55 in the ´Occasions´ section. Original lacquer, and without damage or dents. This tenor was overhauled in the 1990s by Emilio Lyons of Raybun Music: his personal sticker is present on the cup. The sax plays wonderfully on the older pads. Everything else is original, except the case. These are highly sought-after saxes: check quickly if it is still available!
Another special Conn alto saxophone has been added to the collection: a Conn ChuBerry from early 1926 in finish 1 (silver-plated body with gold-plated keys and bell engraving). See AS122 in the ´Occasion´ section. Not many Chuberry altos were made in this finish, and a near mint example like this one is an absolute rarity! The gold plating is virtually complete! The sax plays great on the current polsters: some have been replaced. All locking screws are present. All rollers are original. The sax has only 1 small dent in the bow guard: otherwise no dents, damage or wear.
Another fantastic 6M VIII alto saxophone (MRO ID : AS121). Built early 1939, with serial number 2854xxxx. These pre-war saxes are in great demand and are among the best saxes Conn produced. This one also has the original lacquer, and is in very good condition. Very nice Ladyface engraving on the bell! No dents, damage or repairs! The pads are still fine: the sax was overhauled several years ago. The sax plays superbly and can compete with any MK6. The original neck has no pulldown and, of course, the VIII stamp. The microtuner functions smoothly with no play.
