1951 Olds Recording trumpet

This is a 1951  Los Angeles Olds Recording trumpet that is in very good  condition.  The lacquer is in good overall condition, but it is likely not the original lacquer.    The first Recording models were made in 1950, so this  trumpet was made during the second year of production of the new Recording model.  The first catalog featuring the new model is estimated to have been published in 1951 and is shown above.

The new Recording model featured the same balanced configuration as the prior Super Recording as well as the offset middle valve, but differed with the new "Re-O-loy" (Olds name for higher copper content red brass) bell and leadpipe, as well as a spring loaded third slide trigger.  

Recording models made during this first year of production featured new engraving which has "OLDS RECORDING" in a block style that appears to stand out from the rest of the engraving.   Then the engraving changed where "OLDS RECORDING" was engraved in the style that this trumpet has.  This engraving style is only found on these 1951 and 1952 models. 

An interesting feature of this particular Recording is that is is one of a small number of Recordings (as well as Supers) that have straight sided balusters (rather than the traditional Olds "bulbed" balusters.  It is not known why Olds made this change for less than a year of production, but these horns have a valve cluster that is similar to New York Bach's of this era. 

This Recording also has a first slide trigger, which was either a factory option or customized later.  However, the trigger is the same trigger that Olds used on the Mendez model, which debuted a few months after this trumpet was made.  We've seen a few other Recordings over the years with a trigger like this one, so likely it was simply an option that Olds provided.

This trumpet clean inside and out.  All slides are smooth.   The previous owner had the valves replated by Jim Becker while he was still at Osmun Music.   There is also a patch that was installed on the inside of the bell crook to protect the seam.  This was done at the same time as the valve work. Documentation of this work done in 2021 will be provided with the trumpet.    Valve compression and action are excellent.    

Engraving is sharp and clear.  There are matching serial numbers on the valve spring barrels.

Does not come with a case.

FEATURES:

• Nickel plated trim 
• Balanced forward valve section
• Re-O-loy (red brass) bell and leadpipe
• Nickel plated valves with offset middle valve
• Straight sided balusters
• Spring loaded 3rd Valve slide
• Third slide dump end
• Ornate Bell Engraving
• Bore: .460" Medium-Large Bore
• Matching serial numbers on all valve spring barrels
• New springs, felts and corks
• Two Pin Brass Valve Guides
• Trombone style lever water key on tuning slide and traditional water key on the  third valve slide.