William S. Haynes solid silver flute; serial #29,872.
Just to avoid confusion, I've posted two pages from the Haynes 1945 catalog, which show the differences between the "regular" or "commercial" plateau flutes and the top-quality "hand-made" models.
Not quite certain what others think, but my own opinion is that the flutes from 1935 to 1980 are of especially high quality. "Golden Age", some call them...when the company was still owned by the Haynes family and all their offerings were 100% American made.
I'm reminded of an instrument we acquired, decades ago, from the estate of a very famous teacher. We were told that he had previously owned a good "French model" Haynes and found it to be problematic due to arthritis having affected his fingers. Simple solution: order from Haynes a top-quality instrument with plateau keywork. Just to be sure it was a good idea, he tested a hand-made plateau silver flute for a couple of weeks, then ordered the same model in solid 14K gold.
That particular instrument, plateau, offset G, C foot, but solid 14K was sold to a collector who, we believe, still owns it. In retrospect, we should have kept it for our own pleasure!
Our conclusion is that our flute is indeed "top quality professional model", and is equal to the finest offerings from the Haynes firm. And it's perfect for those players who want a instrument that is a true pleasure to play!
Plateau (covered fingerholes) keywork to low C, offset G, soldered tone-holes, extended key arms over the pad cups.
The instrument was constructed with .016 silver tube, soldered tone-holes.
Sounding length is 599 mm (A=440), the embouchure measures 10.1 X 12.0, giving the instrument a wonderful tone color.
Total weight is 453 grams. All pads and corks are not new, but almost so. We do not recommend replacement. The more modern case is in good condition.
Still in production, retail price is now a bit over $15,000. Our flute is 100% made in America.
Recommended for the adult amateur or a discriminating musician who appreciates the wonderful voice of a Golden Age Haynes.
*** Flute questions?
Write me! Always glad to hear from flute people!
HG
