Silver-Plated Tenor Saxophone Neck (Crook) by Selmer Paris
Musical Instrument Component · Henri Selmer Paris. Founded in 1885, they are the world's most prestigious manufacturer of professional-grade saxophones, known for the legendary Mark VI and Balanced Action models.
Pattern: Series II or Series III neck design, possibly compatible with Mark VI; production style characteristic of late 20th-century professional Selmer Paris models.
Type
Musical Instrument Component
Maker
Henri Selmer Paris. Founded in 1885, they are the world's most prestigious manufacturer of professional-grade saxophones, known for the legendary Mark VI and Balanced Action models.
Material
Heavy silver electroplate over a yellow brass or gold brass base; features a natural cork wrap at the mouthpiece end and a brass octave key mechanism.
Dimensions
Standard tenor saxophone neck dimensions: approximately 18-20 cm in length; diameter at tenon approximately 27-28mm; weight roughly 150-180 grams.
Description
An essential acoustic component of a professional tenor saxophone, this 'crook' or neck is finished in brilliant silver plate. Selmer necks are prized by musicians for their specific bore taper, which significantly dictates the instrument's intonation and tonal color. The silver plating provides a quick response and a more 'focused' sound than brass alone.
Key Features
Underslung style octave mechanism, high-grade silver plating, Selmer-specific bore taper, and professional-grade brass alloy construction.
Material & Composition
Heavy silver electroplate over a yellow brass or gold brass base; features a natural cork wrap at the mouthpiece end and a brass octave key mechanism.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver finish on the main tube with a contrasting gold-lacquered or raw brass octave key bridge. Functional industrial design with minimal ornamentation other than the Selmer 'S' logo (likely on the front of the octave key).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped with 'Henri Selmer Paris' in an oval on the side of the tenon or the tube, often accompanied by 'Made in France' and a serial number or model designation.
Construction Details
Hydraulic or mandrel-tapered brass tube, silver-plated. The octave key bridge is hand-soldered to the tube. The tenon is precision-turned for an airtight fit into the saxophone body.
Functional Features
Includes a functional octave vent (hole), a pivoting 'underslung' or 'high-profile' octave key lever, and a corked mouthpiece mount for friction-fit adjustment.
Handle & Grip Details
Features a brass octave key bridge that acts as the primary mechanical interface. The cork provides the grip for the mouthpiece. Condition of cork appears pitted and aged.
Craftsmanship Details
Seamless tube construction with high-precision silver plating. The brazing of the octave vent is clean and centered, indicating professional factory assembly.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive Selmer 'S' octave bridge shape; high-quality solder joints; French industrial stamping style; specific curvature radius unique to Selmer tenor models.
Origin & Manufacturing
Mantes-la-Ville, France. Hand-assembled in the Selmer workshop, following traditional French woodwind manufacturing standards.
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th Century to present). Indicates a shift towards silver plating for brighter acoustic resonance compared to standard lacquer.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-2010. The style of the octave key and the silver-to-gold contrast suggests a professional model from the last few decades.
Cultural Significance
Selmer Paris saxophones are the industry standard for jazz and classical professionals; this component represents the pinnacle of 20th-century woodwind engineering.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy tarnish (sulfide deposits) on the mouthpiece end. The cork is dried and pitted, likely requiring replacement. The silver plating shows minor micro-scratching from use. Grading: Good (Functional with cosmetic wear).
Value Estimate
$400 - $750 USD depending on the specific model compatibility and internal bore condition. Rare vintage versions can exceed $1,000.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a silver polishing cloth meant for plating (e.g., Hagerty). Avoid aggressive dips that could damage the octave key pads or the cork adhesive. Grease the cork with specialized cork grease.
Similar Pieces
Yanagisawa Sterling Silver necks (heavier, usually solid silver), Yamaha Custom Z necks (different octave key geometry), or vintage Conn 'underslung' necks.
Interesting Facts
The neck is often considered the most important part of the saxophone for sound production. Many professional players own multiple necks (silver, gold-plated, solid silver) to change the 'voice' of a single instrument.