Selmer Radio Improved Alto Saxophone, Just Serviced, Video
1935 Selmer Radio Improved alto saxophone, s/n 20859. Selmer made around 2000 Radio Improved saxophones for only two years. You don't see many of these horns for sale because there are just so few out there. In fact, Selmer made around 100 Mark VI's for every Radio Improved saxophone!
This sax was just serviced by my repairman who replaced a handful of felts and corks. He regulated the pads so that they're sealing well. The sax has a mix of old and new pads, but they appear to be in good condition and should last a good amount of time for the next owner. The sax doesn't have its original coat of lacquer, which is very common for horns of this age. The neck is original to the horn. It's missing most of its lacquer.
In my opinion, this is an uncommonly good Radio Improved sax. There's a wonderful presence and projection to this sax. The bottom end is absolutely booming and responds with ease. If you're looking for a vintage Selmer, you should strongly consider this one. It just wants to tell a story when you pick it up and play it.
