a very early C soprano clarinet

[brigaltman]

I just got a very early HP C soprano clarinet. It has no manufacturer or serial number, just an HP above a C. It's marked on the barrel and bell. It has only 2 rings on the right hand and 13 keys. It is complete, including a mouthpiece, but no case. Any idea where I can find an old style case for this.

I'm debating whether I should leave it as it is to sell, repad and recork it so I can play test it or whether I should completely refurbish it. Does anyone have any ideas?

[windydankoff]

The designation of "high" pitch standard - HP, vs. LP standard, would be typical of the late 19th or early 20th century. Can we see photos?

[brigaltman]

Thanks for your response. I'll try to post pictures tomorrow.

[Dibbs]

I just got a very early HP C soprano clarinet. It has no manufacturer or serial number, just an HP above a C. It's marked on the barrel and bell. It has only 2 rings on the right hand and 13 keys. It is complete, including a mouthpiece, but no case. Any idea where I can find an old style case for this.

I'm debating whether I should leave it as it is to sell, repad and recork it so I can play test it or whether I should completely refurbish it. Does anyone have any ideas?

It's worthless.  Don't waste any time or money on it.

[DaveLeBlanc]

Dibbs, I wouldn't say WORTHLESS. There's definitely a market for museum-pieces, although one can not play that in almost any context, it is really neat as a historical object. I have a variety of worthless clarinets that have good monetary value due to rarity or other features, despite not being able to function as intended, in a ensemble setting. I guess you could always solo with these though

[brigaltman]

I'm thinking I'll repad it. Do you think I should do a full refurb? I have ordered a case for it.

[DaveLeBlanc]

I'm thinking I'll repad it. Do you think I should do a full refurb? I have ordered a case for it.

I would personally go ahead and do the works, IF  YOU LIKE IT. I would gladly display that in my little clarinet museum as a really cool historical object. If you can do it yourself, then you'll save yourself the $200+ that anybody else would charge you for the service.

[brigaltman]

I've been trying to attach a few pictures, but have had no success. I'm using a Mac. What am I missing?

[brigaltman]

Obviously I figured it out. So here are a couple more.

[brigaltman]

Let's see if I've figured this all out now.

[DaveLeBlanc]

Nice, I'd say that's definitely mid-19th century; the lack of rollers on the lower pinky keys sort of gives an upper bound of about 1890 or so.

[brigaltman]

Thanks for the update

[modernicus]

If you can do it yourself, I'd do it for self gratification, not for money.

[windydankoff]

Absolutely! The keys will buff to a dark and lovely shine. I would do it to enjoy the process, and honor the past ... and for the anticipation!

[DaveLeBlanc]

A half decade ago that would probably sell for $200 restored. These days, I have no idea. I haven't sold a thing on eBay in almost 2 years.