1934 Olds Symphony Bb trumpet

The Olds Symphony trumpet is one of the rarest of Olds models.  It is shown in the circa 1933 catalog but is not included in the 1935 catalog.  It was the only large bore Olds trumpet until the Opera model was introduced more than 20 years later.

This particular trumpet has some peculiarities.  When it was acquired a few years ago, the previous owners had it for decoration on top of their piano.   The lacquer was in very poor shape and the valve compression was so bad that the trumpet was virtually unplayable.  As shown in the photos below, the bell engraving indicates "Fullerton, CA" which is not consistent with an Olds trumpet made in 1934.  The bell had the same worn lacquer as the rest of the trumpet, so our best guess is that this trumpet sustained some damage to the bell and was sent back to Olds in the late 1950's or early 1960's for repair and refurbishing.  The current bell engraving is similar to other Olds bell engraving of this era, so speculation is that a new bell was provided at that time.  The trumpet also has a traditional waterkey on the third slide, which would not be consistent for a 1934 Olds trumpet.  This might have been replaced when the replacement bell was added.

We had Charlie Melk perform a complete restoration with replated/refitted valves, so the trumpet is likely as good or better than new.  There is some wear to the serial number and bore marking, either due to use or in the previous refinishing.

FEATURES:
Lacquered brass finish
Nickel plated valves
Bore: .468 Large Symphony bore
Matching serial numbers on all valve spring barrels, valve stems and top caps

Replated/refitted valves with a Precision Valve Alignment
New springs, felts and corks
Two Pin Brass Valve Guides
Third valve slide stop rod
Tuning slide stop rod