Selmer Modele 26 Vintage Alto Saxophone 1927

We are pleased to offer for sale a piece of Selmer Paris history. This instrument has been fully serviced in our workshop and plays beautifully with the sweet vintage tone for which these instruments are renowned. They rarely come up for sale given the limited numbers made. This instrument was purchased by the owner’s late father in 1937 from McCormack’s Music in Glasgow. It comes with its original case.

The Selmer Modele 26 (often styled Modèle 26 or just “Model 26”) is a vintage professional-level alto saxophonemade by Henri Selmer Paris, introduced in 1926. It was Selmer’s first large-scale saxophone model following the acquisition of the Adolphe Sax patent rights, and represents a major step in the evolution of the modern saxophone.

Here’s a detailed overview:

🔹 Historical Context

• Introduced: 1926

• Production ended: ~1929 (replaced by the Selmer "Model 28" and then "Cigar Cutter" models)

• Serial numbers: Approximately 4300 to 8400 (approximate range for altos)

• Built in Paris, these were hand-crafted and reflected both French design sensibility and American influence.

🔹 Key Features

• Keywork:

  • Modern for its time, though lacking certain ergonomic refinements of later Selmer saxophones.

  • No front F key standard (some later ones may have added it).

  • No high F# key.

• Split bell keys: The low B and Bb keys are on opposite sides of the bell (right and left)—typical of pre-balanced action horns.

• Tuning/Intonation: Generally in modern pitch (A=440), but with some quirks—intonation is not as even or reliable as on later Selmers.

• Body construction:

  • Rolled tone holes on some examples, though not all.

  • Soldered neck tenon (non-removable, different from later removable designs).

• Engraving: This instrument is not engraved.

🔹 Tone and Playing Characteristics

• Tone:

  • Rich, dark, and flexible.

  • A bit “spread” and less focused than modern Selmers like the Mark VI or Super Balanced Action.

  • Particularly loved by players of vintage jazz, early swing, and classical repertoire for its character and warmth.

• Response:

  • Slightly more resistant than later horns.

  • Faster action than many contemporaries (like Conns or Bueschers of the same era), but not as fluid as post-1930s Selmers.

🔹 Collectibility and Value

• Highly collectible, especially in good original condition with the original lacquer and neck.

• More rare than later models due to relatively low production numbers.

• Sought after by collectors and players who want a unique vintage voice with historical pedigree.