SELMER-PARIS "CENTERED TONE", clarinet, made in FRANCE in 1956; serial #Q6070
 
*** Just to be sure you know..  Selmer-France was owned, until recently, by the Selmer family;  Selmer-USA was, until several decades ago, a separate firm, originally owned by George Bundy and others. 

*** Selmer-France built the pro-model clarinets and Selmer-USA did all the entry-level and "step-up" clarinets.

The instrument we've posted today is one of the famous "Centered Tone"  models, said to have been designed by Benny Goodman.  The CT's were in production from the mid fifties until about 1975, as I recall.   I bought one, for my own use, in 1960.  A buddy told me he was joining the Army, planned to give up his music career forever.   Bob Moon was his name....wonder what ever happened to him...

But I used his clarinet for a couple of years, sold it and immediately regretted doing so!
The clarinet I've posted today came to us from the estate of another fellow I knew for a long time. I can give you his name, if you'd like.  Serial number indicates 1956 vintage and  I've known this particular instrument for more than sixty years.

The original owner took good care of it and that means the wood cracks that often appear to the top joint of a CT are not to be found on this rare lady.  No wear to the rings, either. 

However... The CT models were made with wood to the bell that was, simply said, too thin.  Our CT developed a bell crack many years ago and my photos do show our ancient repairs.
More said...CT bells weigh 95 grams.  I've included a 10S bell also with the instrument.  It weighs 113 grams and looks new. No cracks, plays very well and pulls the (slightly too low) pitch of the low E right where it should be.

NO CHARGE for the second bell:  that means one clarinet, one case, one original mouthpiece and two bells.

The example we've posted today  plays like a new one..  We've fitted it with all new pads and corks and have found it works very well indeed. OK for an advanced player or the serious amateur.

Top recommendation on this beauty!
 
***GR/Wichita
 
HG