Before and After
I thought it would be fun to post pics of some of my more interesting recent projects: re-gilded logos, crack repairs, and even just a good standard overhaul can make such a world of difference to both the looks and playability of an instrument! Plus, some of these old horns are rare, unusual in some way, or lovely examples of the kind of painstaking craftsmanship that you just don't see anymore for any money! So, here goes....
Before shot of a late 19th century Meyer system piccolo, with cracked headjoint and in need of a full overhaul...
Quite an improvement in both looks and playability!
Before shot of a late 40's Conn 424, a great large bore Jazz horn in need of some love....
Boy, these are nice horns when they're tuned up right....
Just finished this late 1950's Leblanc Dynamique Full Boehm and had to post it - it doesn't look all that much better, but tightening the keywork and replacing the pads with Precision tan kid made a world of difference! I love Full Boehms and always have my eye out for them...
Wow! A 1920's Kohlert 'Sax System' Bb clarinet. Plateau keywork designed for sax doublers - an odd amalgam of Albert and Boehm fingering. Probably one of the trickeiest clarinets I've ever overhauled, but what a great sound and feel! 
1930's Buffet Crampon Full Boehm in bad shape! Let's see what happens...
Wow - looks much better and plays great!
1934 Selmer BT Bb Clarinet 7 ring with articulated C# - no repairs needed, just a full overhaul to get this looking...
Like this! Its a great player and I love the extra keywork, too. Why don' you see articulated C#s much anymore?