King Zephyr Special Tenor Original Lacquer 1939 229xxx

Description

I often think that 1939-40 was the best time for saxophones all things considered. If you went into a music store, you would have to choose between a King Zephyr Special, a Selmer Balanced Action, and a Conn 10M, among others. The Zephyr Special is an amazingly beautiful, ornate, and fun to play saxophone. It has a sonic world all its own. Nothing sounds like a King. This horn is big, wide, resonant and loud, but it is also delicate, rich, and projecting. The neck is solid silver, which gives it extra overtones and a focused kind of darkness to the sound.

I play a Zephyr Special on tenor a lot, and mine is also from this same vintage. They are just really hard to beat for an all-around great-sounding and feeling tenor. The later ZS tenors (after 255xxx) lose some of the ornate features of these earlier ones. But the early Super 20 tenors are basically identical to the Zephyr Special, so it was a long-lasting sound concept that I wish someone would bring back today.

This is a beautiful example of a Zephyr Special. The solid silver neck is in great shape, and has not been pulled down. It has the matching serial number to the body. The engraving is gorgeous and elaborate. The pearl side keys and G# key are beautiful. You have the three ring strap hook, so you can adjust the balance of the horn, and the double socket neck for extra good neck seal (which is important). The keywork feels light and fast under the fingers. There are no dents, or dings on the horn after some light dent work by Matt Stohrer. The octave lever was resoldered on the body side, and now looks excellent. The pads are old, so this needs a repad. I’m pricing this a bit lower because of the old pads, and you can buy it and get it overhauled if you want the full experience. I have some spots reserved with Matt Stohrer if you want to discuss having him overhaul this for you.

These horns are hard to find, and I get them as often as I can. If you have been looking for a very nice Zephyr Special, this is it. Only one available.

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This saxophone is sold! But click HERE to see our current selection of tenor saxophones.