The Most Over-the-Top eBay Ad of the Week Award ...

[Pete]

I generally check eBay weekly. My submission for this week then is 2532443561 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2532443561&category=16 203):


Hello, Matt Raines here. I recently sold the first completed non-prototype soprano sax on Ebay and received great feedback. It was a beautiful fixed neck model-which I personally prefer. However, I also received no less than 4 requests for a removable neck model, so here it is!

First of all, this is a PRO instrument. Not a "step-up" or "intermediate" , or "great deal for the money" horn. It has high F# and G keys. The pads are top notch w/resonators for unparallelled projection. The intonation is DEAD ON. The action and ergonomics of the keys are PHENOMENAL! I would never say anything is better than a Yamaha or Selmer because this would be an opinion. I've known players that PREFER student models for God's sake! I will say this; THESE SAXES WERE DESIGNED FOR THE CONSUMATE PROFESSIONAL.

What makes instruments so expensive? The machinery? The set up? The parts? The endorsers? The NAME ?? Think about it. I had a friend play my old Yanigisawa alto. He LOVED it. But he said he would ONLY play SELMER MARK VI horns. Another victim of propaganda. Now I love Selmers, but I personally prefer Yanagisawa as does the player with whom I designed these saxes. Lead-don't follow. Play a horn you LOVE, not a horn everyone else tells you to love!

This is the FIRST completed sax with 2 removable necks. It is a Matt Raines PRECISION VI SPECIAL EDITION soprano and is available on Ebay for a limited time only.

This sax comes complete with deluxe professional hard case AND the brand new MATT RAINES PRECISION metal mouthpiece! That's right, at no charge! Make no mistake about it; this mouthpiece was specifically designed to compliment the PRECISION series horns. You have NEVER played a more free blowing set up. Absolutely effortless!

Please visit the link above for better pics and more info. Again, I'm starting at $9.99 with NO RESERVE on the sax AND mouthpiece! This is a once in a lifetime chance as this is the FIRST of this model available!

I understand that I'm the "new guy" in a sea of sellers. I know there are some terrible horns out there. I also know that you'll be taking a risk in buying a horn you've never played. Please just look at the pictures, look at my feedback and look at the other horns at your local stores-then compare. I only have one of these and won't have another until late June, so do the right thing! Peace-Matt

(You may wish to follow my example and quote the ad. eBay "flushes" the auction 14 to 30 days after it's complete. I use the startcode of "{quote}{size=9}" and endcode of "{/size}{/quote]}" -- substitute regular brackets, [].)

We can, of course extend this to "Most Outrageous eBay Ad" or whatever ...

[Pete]

Sorry. My favorite poster submitted at least three new ads, so he's definitely the winner. These are in regard to Hampton saxophones. Easily 5 pages of text in each ad. Multi-color. A zillion fonts. Lots of words capitalized:

* 2532856108 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2532856108&category=16 234)
* 2532856156 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2532856156&category=16 203)
* 2532810515 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2532810515&category=16 203)

I think he says somewhere in the ads that these horns can cure baldness, promote world peace and shaves without the nicks and cuts of a blade ...


===========



Winner!
alleghenymusic (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=alleghenymusic)

[Hurling Frootmig]

And he only wants $100 more than what Woodwind and Brasswind will sell you a YTS-52!

Let's see a crappy no name horn or . . .

[Jazzophone]

ouch! sure tries to put enough emphasis on those saxes! but ew, those crazy finishes look downright screwballed to me. "siberian tiger?" "viper blue?" (I'll bet you they probably use the car paint ...) wow, sure takes the cake for most Over-the-Top. ha.

[Hurling Frootmig]

His ads on the soprano's are even funnier. Talks about the Yanagisawa's and Yamaha and quotes their list price. Then tries to imply that his horns are great alternatives. For $100 less you could purchase a Antigua 590LQ from Dave Kessler which would probably be a much better horn. The other good laugh is when this fellow says that all the major horns are "all the same".

If I were buying a new soprano I wouldn't consider some no name when there are better quality and better priced horns in the vintage market as well as the new market. My two cents.

[bari_sax_diva]

Hmmm.... could it be that L.A. Sax does private label for this guy?

Inquiring minds want to know. I think I might e-mail them.

-Leanne

[Johannes Gerber]

the soprano in the middle at the last link clearly has the LA Sax label near the end of the bell.

[I. Fallon]

I'm sorry. The best eBay ad I have ever seen was a series on a guy desperate for a gig. He definately got his $1 of fun out of those ads.

Second place concerned a chrome tea pot with "specially detailed" photographs.

[Media Lint]

PLEASE BELEIVE ME WHEN I TELL YOU

Unless you are rich and have money to throw away, you will get THE BEST soprano sax for the money on the market today if you buy a Hampton.

Well I already linked to the $80 milk cap, and to the unsold video self help tape "pray and lose weight" ... (I'm so glad no one bid on that...)

Let's see, there's

Belly Button Lint for $1 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2926572063&category=14 69)

and

Bent Paper Clip (Bad Condition) $1 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2927067786&category=14 69)

Both sold.

[Morry]

I feel silly about how we always get on this board and debate various makes and models of horns, since I now know that they're ALL THE SAME. :lol:

[Morry]

Ok, guys. This guy is stark raving looney.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2534874208&category=16 234

[Jazzophone]

Thanks, but even though it's the same as ALL THE REST, I like my new, standard gold Yamaha 52. :lol:

[john]

Morry,
It's a pity ebay doesn't charge guys like that by the WORD!

john

[Morry]

Or by the shovel-full... :wink:

[Jonno]

OK..yeah, some of those ones were good...... :lol:
Look at Item # 3525650791.

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3525650791

These are photos of some guy who played sax, got all these pictures done for an album, then decided that he didnt want to play sax anymore (before releasing the album)....now he is trying to get someone to buy his pictures to hang on their wall???????? He hasnt even released an album! You can buy a coltrane poster for $10, and this guy is charging $195!

============



Winner!
evanone (http://cgi2.ebay.com.au/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=evanone)

[Kosma]

That's just too much. $200 for a picture of an ex-wannabe sax player?
I just can't get my feeble mind wrapped around that logic!

[Jonno]

This is the speil on the pictures -
Obviously playing the sax never meant as much to him as they say cause he doesnt play anymore.....

HISTORY


Evan Carydakis was an exceptional new talent, who performed with an energy and spirit indicative of the great performers of the modern era. A tenor saxophonist of note, Evan’s organic combination of lush sound, warm personality and diverse culture rendered performances that were full of dimension and body.


Evan was born in Melbourne, Australia; however, his family tree entails a diverse mix of both Greek and Egyptian ethnicity. Evan’s parents, Nicholas and Mary Carydakis, were born in Alexandria, Egypt, and his grandparents hail from Crete and Cyprus

Evan began playing the tenor saxophone at what can be conceived as a late age, 17. “Yeah, it wasn’t a gradual thing like most people. In fact I still remember the exact moment that it all happened. I was browsing through a record store and came across the album cover of Royal Garden Blues. That image on the front cover blew me away. Without having heard the music or even really knowing what a saxophone sounded like I knew right there and then that I had to play the saxophone and I had to play jazz. It was almost as if something or someone was telling me ‘This is it man, this is you.’”


From that moment, Evan immediately began a six-year association with John Barrett (Berklee College of Music Alumni), learning the principles of saxophone technique and jazz improvisation. An enduring hunger and passion for the music eventually landed Evan in Boston, MA, where he studied privately with Jerry Bergonzi and Joe Viola. “You know the biggest thing that I learnt from these guys was humility. Joe is an icon and he went out of his way to help me out, a kid from Australia whom he didn’t know from a bar of soap. They are so humble and accessible, and eager to pass on the tradition to someone who is genuinely interested. That was a big learning curve for me.”


Throughout his musical journey, Evan also developed and insatiable appetite for experiencing first-hand the splendor that the world has to offer. Primarily instigated by his Hellenic origins, Evan has since appreciated countries and cultures as far reaching as Greece, Egypt, Turkey, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Austria, Belgium, England, France, Germany, Holland, Italy, Monaco, Switzerland, and the U.S.A. These sorties have overwhelmingly influenced his outlook on life, and have thus left an indelible imprint on the tenor man.


Evan had commissioned these photographs in anticipation of his solo debut release titled, “Nothing more, nothing less.” Unfortunately for lovers of fine music, this was not to be, as Evan’s growing passion for history and philosophy eventually took him on a new path, a path inaugurated by what we see here; his love of freedom, and the improvised form.

[Just Say Sax]

Why buy an intermediate Yamaha when you can own a Hampton??? That was histerical! This is a great thread!

He forgot to tell us the convenient way to calcuate that purple stripped Hampton's RESALE value - - - simply move the decimile point - - - from $1,499 to $149.

[Alex]

oh man, I love the "inspiring" story of how Evan decided he HAD to be a sax player after seeing the an album cover he thought looked cool.. that is so flaky.

"I was browsing through a record store and came across the album cover of Royal Garden Blues. That image on the front cover blew me away. Without having heard the music or even really knowing what a saxophone sounded like I knew right there and then that I had to play the saxophone and I had to play jazz"

It's almost like the ad is making fun of itself.

[Pete]

Sorry; I've been away for awhile, folks. This week's entry:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2538520293&category=16 232


Sell your MK VI and buy this-- WHAT A DEAL! Who needs another sax? You need this one!

... any ad that has this phrase in it is deserving of this award.

Now, the interesting thing, in this case, is that the auction is for a decent horn -- but one you may never have heard of.

============



Winner!
conn-o-sax (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=conn-o-sax)

[max]

Why the dog?!?
(he seems to have lost his patience for this "game" by the second picture...)

[paulwl]

"The dog [NAME REDACTED] is not for sale!"

Funny, I did a deal with this cat last year, and he offered to throw the dog in for an extra $200... :?

[Pete]

I believe this is the same person that tried to sell an F Mezzo a little while back -- the low quality pics and dog are very similar.

[Jason DuMars]

a genuine Con painted lady! :) worth $3500!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2541009996&category=16 234

I wonder if this lady spent time in Sugal's closet? :wink:

[Kosma]

Check out this lunacy:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2539675266&category=16 234

============



Winner!
hotsheba (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=hotsheba)

[DaveKessler]

Check out this lunacy:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2539675266&category=16 234

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

[Saxaholic]

check it out! I lost the link........but on Ebay........there is a BLUE BUESCHER SAXOPHONE. ITS PEARL BLUE......REALLY CREEPY......LOOKS ORIGINAL :lol:

[King Bee]

The Matt Raines story is facinating. I thought it was a tongue-in-cheek eBay posting, but someone bid over $700 for it. The mouthpiece is nicely engraved with "Matt Raines" on the top. By the end of his blurb, I wanted to know more about this horn. There are no markings visible whatsoever... what is it's true provenance?

The Bee wants to know! :D

[Pete]

It's nice to know he's branched out into mouthpieces. He's the guy that made me start this thread :).

[Jonno]

I dont really know if this would count as "over the top" but its definitley random. This guy is trying to sell a rock that is vaugely the shape of a sax. Weird.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2181289547&category=41 5

[stitch]

This guy is trying to sell a rock that is vaugely the shape of a sax. Weird.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2181289547&category=41 5

... and vintage too!!!! :roll:

[colibri]

It rocks!

[The Martin]

You but does it Roll :wink:

[The Martin]

You = Yeah :shock:

[Anji]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2542802141&category=16 232

My Yugo is just like a Lincoln town car, once you get past the smell.

========



Winner!
gospeljazzplayer (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=gospeljazzplayer )
(This one was hotly contested. I still like my entry, below. The rock was amusing, too. In the end I decided to give this award to someone who's relisted his ad three times, yet kept the "Like Mark VI" description. It's also a MONIQUE, which put this ad over-the-top for me -- saxpics)

[alsdiego]

After 7 bids, the bid price is now up to $10.50; however, the reserve has not yet been met. Let's try $11.00. :D

[Pete]

You're right. That ad is just plain stupid:


The Monique is set up like the Mark Vi....The Mark VI is just made better

I want to find out who wins that auction. I've got a deal for him on my Bundy II: "The Bundy II is made by the same company that made the Mark VI .... The Mark VI is just made better"

[Pete]

This week's entry: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2541718727&category=16 234


IMPRESS YOUR UNCLE, ASTOUND YOUR FRIENDS, WALK INTO THE OFFICE AND DEMAND AN IMMEDIATE PAY RISE FROM YOUR BOSS BECAUSE .... YOUR SAXOPHONES SOUND IS JUST ABOUT TO IMPROVE BY 100%.

THIS CHAMPION B & M TENOR SAXOPHONE HAS BEEN LOVINGLY CRAFTED TO THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF GERMAN PRECISION AND BALANCES PERFECTLY TWEEN THE FINGERS AND THE HAND. DO NOT BE MISTAKEN! IN NO WAY SHOULD THIS INSTRUMENT BE CONFUSED WITH THE RECENT INFLUX OF CHEAP JAPANESE IMMITATIONS. YOU ARE BUYING SIMPLY THE VERY BEST.

IT'S SENSUAL TONE IS GUARANTEED TO IMPROVE THE PLAYING FINESSE OF ANY; BE IT NOVICE, STUDENT OR PROFESSIONAL AND IN LOOKS YOU ARE BUYING A ROLLS ROYCE RATHER THAN A RELIANT ROBIN.

SO, WHETHER YOU ARE BUYING THIS INSTRUMENT TO PLAY (THIS BEAUTY YEARNS TO BE PLAYED EVERY DAY) OR AS AN INVESTMENT (I HAVE HAD HER VALUED EACH YEAR AND EVERY YEAR THE VALUE INCREASES APPROX £100. YOU ARE BUYING THE VERY BEST.

[Kosma]

I tried that link, Saxpics, and it was invalid. Kind of like the description you pasted...

I see ads all the time that say "like selmer" or similar. Someone said on here that that was brand spamming but I don't see ebay doing anything about it.
I saw one yesterday for an ARB tenor mpc I think. The title said something like "ARB mpc for Selmer and Conn".

I see our friend relisted the SDA tenor with the same pictures and the same (too high) price.

[Pete]

I fixed the link. I would have sworn it was working earlier. I'm sure I checked it.

"Brand spamming" is extremely common on eBay. I do believe they said (an I'm trying to remember from another thread) that they'd delete any ad that has references to more than two companies in the ad's title. This is only moderately helpful. Example ad title that'll come around: "Monique bari. Built like a Selmer. Sounds like a Conn." (Ooops. That ad title should have been in ALL CAPS.)

I really don't understand why people, after looking at an ad with a "brand spam" title, don't turn around and decide to buy a Mark VI or Yanagisawa or whatever instead.

I don't think simple "brand spam" would qualify for this prestigous weekly award. It'd have to have something else to make it stand out. The above ad has the flowery, yet meaningless, description, a horn you've never heard of (I've actually seen a couple before, but that's aside from the point), a reference to a comical English/French car, a rather unlikely guarantee and ad copy in ALL CAPS.

===============

That is a nice looking SDA. Pity it's priced too high. Well, the seller is probably trying to do one of two things:

a. Wait for someone who overpays for everything
b. Wait for someone who's read that the SDA is a great horn, definitely the equal of the Mark VI -- but didn't read the disclaimer, "... but they're seriously undervalued."

[Kosma]

That worked, thanks. That ad is over the top for sure!

SOUNDS SO GOOD---WITH THE MOUTHPIECE ON UPSIDE DOWN!!

Oh boy.

So who makes that incredible instrument?

[Pete]

Well, "Champion" was a J. Keilwerth model, but there are so many irregularities in this horn's construction, I'd rather think it may be either a Richard Keilwerth model or an Adler (or other pre-Weltklang) horn.

The bell-to-body brace is unique, to say the least.

[john]

I love this one:
Buescher 400 Tenor Saxophone - MUST SEE!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2545584898&category=16 234


And then- you guessed it NO pictures. :lol:

john

[Dan000892]

LOL! Yeah, I found that a couple days ago... even eluded to that same joke in an email to the seller... I asked for pics, or serial... or model number... or COMPETENCE! (eh.... can't expect that now can we? :lol:)

[Dan000892]

Here's my post for this week's worst ebay ad:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2545369080

The title alone would have done it... "EYE might HAVE KENNY G.'s SAPRANO SAX"

=========



Winner!
eyecancanu@aol.com (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=eyecancanu%40aol .com)

[russps]

I've seen this ad several times, it is my favorite.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2546480017&category=10 184

[max]

LOL!!

"with FEATURES!"

[Pete]

Russ, you're right. Any other week I think Dan's entry would win, though.

I just am amazed that the seller seems to actually think that this is a real horn!

[Dan000892]

Ohhh.... so close and yet so far... :cry: :lol:

[russps]

Russ, you're right. Any other week I think Dan's entry would win, though.

I just am amazed that the seller seems to actually think that this is a real horn!

Dan deserves to win, so just bump my post to next week. I'm surprised this hasn't been posted here before, these things have been popping up on ebay for over a month. I'm tempted to buy one, they look interesting.

Russ

[Pete]

I've gotta come up with awards. Maybe I can give folks an avatar for a week or something ...

[Dan000892]

Thanks russ! 8) Saxpics, the avatar idea is cool. Let me know if you want any help on that.

[Pete]

Let me see if I can first make it work and then I'll ask Harri if we can turn 'em on for select folks. At the very least I can put a text message after your name (similar to how it says "Moderator" after my name).

If you want to do a design, that'd be very kewl. The current size is 80x80 pixels for a maximum, so that gives you an idea. I think I can make it somewhat larger, if necessary, but I'd rather not. Size (in bytes or K) is also a concern.

Take care, all!

[Dan000892]

I made some prototype avatars... let me know what you think... you can check em out here... they're 80x80 GIF's, 2.71-2.75kb

http://www.geocities.com/dan000892/avatars.htm

[Mike Ruhl]

Oops! I should have known better...

(original submission edited once I came to my senses)

[Pete]

Mike, it's a good submission, but see http://saxontheweb.myforums.net/viewtopic.php?t=5892

=========

I like the awards, Dan. What I can do with them is actually edit user posts and put the awards here, no avatars needed. Probably tyhe most simple thing to do. What do you think?

[Dan000892]

Saxpics: Not bad... I was thinking the avatar idea'd be better, but of course the mods can't really set that up for specific people (that I know of). I was thinking could even overlay a number on top of the avatar for how many times a person's won it if they were a repeat, but again could it be done and would it be worth it? Thinking it over a bit, I think you had the best idea. Sounds good! 8)

[kawakami]

Yep, I understand his something to say...


Better than a Mark VI !
Why? According to Selmer, it is the closest thing they have made to a Mark VI since the original. Except this sax is only 5 years old and works perfectly - Unlike a Mark VI, no maintenance is required!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2546981835&category=16 234

[Dan000892]

kawakami... that's not really that over the top since some people prefer serie III to Mark VI and the point that it's in perfect playing and cosmetic condition for under 3k is a valid one.

here's one that might make the cut though: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2544408040&category=16 234

I've never seen anyone on ebay (a seller) make an auction for people to pay him! Ever heard of spending within your means? This kid hasn't... and oh yeah, the seller is 16. He says so in his auction and feedback and yet, eBay hasn't done anything about this obvious violation of the ToS. :roll:

Oh... almost forgot: the reason why i waited til the auction ended was so that i'd be sure someone didn't actually place a bid. Now that I think about it, it'd be crazier if someone actually had!

[Pete]

... and the auction that he says his "brother" bid on ended up being for $5.50 AND he the bought the same thing from another dealer for $13.00 ...

==========

All rightee, then. Here's what I'll do:

* I'll "grandfather" some of the old posts above with an award.
* I'll do one a week, over a period of Sunday to Saturday.
* I'll only give ads that I submit an award if other posters also like it.
* I might give an award for the lamest ad of the month. Remember that eBay only keeps said auction on file for a month, so y'all might wanna post some text here!

[Dan000892]

Good plan SP!

[Carl H.]

While not quite over the top, this "ain't quite right"

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2547312895&category=16 234

"The case will hold four reeds and maintains moisture control via a dessicant tube that is placed inside the case and can be placed under running water to rehumidify. "

[Stretch]

No bullet holes even!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3618003310&category=39 5

[Howlin]

So depending on the choice of metal, you can have a sax that is easier to play and stronger, more resistant to denting and breaking, or a sax that is flimsy, dents easy, is harder to blow through, and therfore harder to play.

Wow!
No wonder I'm having trouble with the VI!

[Dan000892]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2547275457

It's a Post Top Hat & Cane Buescher 400!!!!

"...There are some light scratches overall, the majority are where the neck strap clips to the horn. (Playing in smoke filled speakeasys I would imagine!)"

I couldn't see the rear bell keys in the picture so I emailed the seller for the serial. It's 548940! It's a Selmer late "2nd Generation" horn! I kindly let the seller know she was mistaken in her description... and that speakeasys didn't exist when this horn was built, which was in 1971. :!:



Complete text follows (since she's likely to change it):

Now, keep in mind, I don't play the saxaphone. This horn came to me used, so I don't know the history on it, but if it could talk, I would imagine it would have some truly cool stories to tell. I have been told that this is a "post top hat and cane" Buescher 400 sax. I would say this horn is in very good condition. There are some light scratches overall, the majority are where the neck strap clips to the horn. (Playing in smoke filled speakeasys I would imagine!) There are also some slightly heavier scratches on the neck. The mouthpiece is used but still looks okay. The case seems to be from the same timeperiod and is hard with a fake leather cover. The inside looks great. The stitching on the back and one side of the lid is broken, so the trim is loose. I don't have a key, but it is a locking case. I have photographed it, but I am also not a photographer. Please don't let my lack of skill keep you from taking a look at this beautiful horn. I am starting the bidding at $99.95 and the shipping will be $25.00. Thank you for looking.

[JfW]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2545837514&category=16 232


This is a Martin Alto Saxophone that belonged to my father. He played it some time ago, during the early 50's in a live radio orchestra. It has sat in it's case for many years. After deciding to sell it, I sent it to Chicago, to a good friend of mine and great jazz musician Jeff Marx. He took it to the best horn man in Chicago, Stefan Szach, for reconditioning. The reconditioning cost $450.00. Now it is back here in the legendary music town of Detroit and ready to sell. I'm not a musician, but a photographer, so if you have any specific questions I'm not sure if I could answer them. I am told it is a great solid horn and now it's ready to play. Any other information or questions I'll get Jeff Marx to answer for me. The serial numbers - 104661 and it reads Martin - low pitch. Here's your ax man!

[Big Nick]

Here's a bargain for all you sop players! :lol:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2547755354&category=16 203

[Dan000892]

I'd tell him it's a clarinet, but perhaps I could pick it up for a pound if i don't :lol:

[JfW]

Just to explain my post above...

does that look like a C-Melody to anyone else? The big case was a tipoff for me.

[Mike Ruhl]

does that look like a C-Melody to anyone else? The big case was a tipoff for me.No, it's an alto. Check the neck.

What about the case made you think it's a C-melody?

[JfW]

does that look like a C-Melody to anyone else? The big case was a tipoff for me.No, it's an alto. Check the neck.

What about the case made you think it's a C-melody?

the case is inordinately large, and the horn fills it out too much for an alto. With the neck, there were a few C melodies made with such a neck. The neck size just looks out of proportion to be an alto as well, or am I just seeing things?

[saxmanglen]

Look at the size of the bell. To me it looks like a tenor size bell to me. My opinion is it's a C melody for sure.

[bari_sax_diva]

I dunno... I've run into Martin C-Melody saxes a time or two, and they have a curved neck. I'd go with alto.

[saxmanglen]

Doesn't this bell look like it's to tall or long to be an alto?

[Pete]

For what it's worth, it looks like an alto to me.

Anyhow, the ad's not really over-the-top. It may be inaccurate, but it's not in-your-face.

[russps]

I searched every soprano ad on ebay and can't come up with what I'm looking for. About a year or two ago someone was selling some "off brand" soprano saxes, and mentioned how the removable neck sopranos were superior because you are able to move the neck and the mouthpiece to tune. I guess someone finaly explained that you don't tune at the neck.

Russ

[amalfitano_hamilton]

See, this isn't really "over the top", it's just stupid. Here's a guy selling a "Twin Towers" Guardala alto with an opening bid of $3100 and a Buy It Now of $3600. Check out the case with this sax. Wouldn't you expect the SKB it came in or a reasonable substitute?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2548011046&category=16 232#ebayphotohosting

[Mike Ruhl]

I guess someone finaly explained that you don't tune at the neck.Of course you can tune at the neck. But that doesn't make removable-neck sopranos superior, imho.

Oh, and upon further review of the pics above, I'm not sure what that is either. The body does appear to be longer than an alto, but the neck angle is wrong for a straight-necked C-melody.

[rlowenote]

Regarding the confusion of the Martin "Alto" or "C-Melody", in reading the description the serial number says Low Pitch. Does that mean a C-Melody. I'm new to this instrument (never heard of it in school and I played a little Alto and Tenor). That was a long time ago.

[Dan000892]

Low pitch or high pitch refers to the tuning.... pretty much any horn made before 1940 is designated Low Pitch (A=440) or High Pitch (usually A=457). Don't thank me, thank Conn.

Low Pitch or High Pitch is therefore not indicitive of any particular voicing.

(And before you ask what High Pitched horns are used for, the answer is lamps, flattened and signed for a nice gift to a director, and anything else artistic.)


Now how about we stop talking about that stupid horn whose ad is not even remotely over the top, before I have to submit this thread as over-the-top :wink:

[I. Fallon]

I don't know if eBay Ad #2549162754 (Couesnon clarinet lamp) qualifies, but "the photo background" is sure further proof that a cropped photo is a safe photo LOL.

[Mike Ruhl]

No kidding! :roll: Here's a direct link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2549162754

[Andres]

This is the fastest sax in the west!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2550910281&category=16 234

*ZOOM!*



Winner!
dani-ash-61568 (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=dani-ash-61568)

[larry]

Maybe he's got a Boston accent? Awways the mach of a wicked good playah!
:lol:

[Hurling Frootmig]

This one is very funny with apologies to those folks from Alabama.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2551429713&category=16 234

Only played in High School band for SIX years!

[Jack W.]

One can only hope, by at least two different kids in the family. :)

Just trying to assume the best of them is all. 8)

[Hurling Frootmig]

Here's one that is really amazing:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2552747385&category=16 232

He only wants $8500 as his opening bid but has a Buy it now price of $9500 for the lowly Elkhart by Buescher 20A. His ad says that this horn is solid brass and not brass plated. It also needs a couple of pads (not replaced but needs) but it sounds great.

---------



Winner!
dasfarms (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=dasfarms)

While I generally go for the humor value, $8.5K for a second-line horn is most definitely "over-the-top".

[MusicMan]

I see he ended the auction early because of an error...as in realistic price!

[Sigmund451]

For any one interested my horn, too , is for sale for 8000 dollars :wink:

That's wholesale.

[Hurling Frootmig]

He took great offense when I sent him an e-mail letting him know that this was a student horn. Apparently he took my advice about contacting some horn dealers for some better information on what this horn is worth.

[goodsax]

And it was, apparently, his first try at selling on eBay. Nice try........NOT!

[electricninja]

I can't believe you guys forgot the yahoos that sell the "2004 German Guaranty" Wexler saxes.

[goodsax]

I didn't forget, but they aren't trying to sell them for $8,500 and describing their tin cans as the best alto sax you will ever play.

[SopranoSue]

Previous post:

----
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2545369080

The title alone would have done it... "EYE might HAVE KENNY G.'s SAPRANO SAX"
----

Well, the description has been revised. Seems like it's now a clarinet! They don't even know what they're selling. Oh, and it needs a reed. :lol:


WELL.......MAYBE NOT KENNY G.'s SAPRANO SAX but 20 E-MAILS LATER,I'LL GO WITH CLARINET! THIS IS A TWENTY-SIX INCH,DUPONT SUPERIOR SILVER-PLATED METAL CLARINET,with a THREE INCH DIAMETER BELL.THIS NEEDS A REED,a few pads fixed,LOTS of T.L.C. and SHE'LL BE AS GOOD AS NEW! AND SO WHAT - IF YOU FIND OUT YOU CAN'T PLAY AFTER SOME LESSONS....MELT IT DOWN and WITH THE MONEY YOU MADE,TAKE ALL YOUR FRIENDS TO A KENNY G. CONCERT, EITHER WAY,DON'T MISS OUT!!! WHAT A BEAUTIFULLY LAVISH INSTRUMENT WITH ITS OWN CASE!THANKS FOR TAKING A LOOK AT THIS and MY OTHER ON-LINE AUCTIONS! CREDIT CARDS THRU PAYPAL,POSTAL MONEY ORDERS or CHECKS WITH A FOUR DAY HOLD!DON'T MISS THIS ONE, NO RESERVE!!!

======

Previous Winner



(See post Fri Jul 18, 2003 1:13 pm)

[goodsax]

A coupla things: someone actually bid on that and won it for $49.99, the seller has a 100% positive rating with 333 different feedbacks, and did you see the "AWESOME VAN BRIGGLE POTTERY" for only $150 BIN when you select View Seller's Other Items? Amazing.

[deblcooper]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2552833480&category=16 232

This one comes with dinner! :lol:

[Dr G]

Here's my most recent favorite - a "New German~Type Tenor Saxophone" - http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2553997443 .

I'm not sure what makes it "German~Type" - maybe it's the upside-down mouthpiece? Nah, that would be Australian. :shock:

[Dr G]

<snort> Gary can always make me laugh...

ref: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2554129398

"SO WHY WOULD YOU EVER CONSIDER TO PLAY A MOUTHPIECE THAT WAS ANYTHING LESS THAN THE VERY BEST MONEY CAN BUY?"

"WHAT I'm SAYING is Your PROBABLY PLAYING A VERY FINE SELMER, KEILWERTH, YAMAHA, or EVEN A SUGAL SAXOPHONE. All considered by musicians as the "Mercedes of Horns" "

Yep, whenever I think of the Big Four of saxophone manufacturers, I think of Sugal! :shock:

=======



Winner!
garysugal (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=garysugal)

Lots of competition this week. Runner up was definitely the clams incident (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2552833480&category=16 232). Please also note the misspelling of "saxaphone" and the e-mail address that begins with "melodrama" in that one :).

[Dr G]

Oh my, I should have read on...

"You will get a "fat broad" slight edge sound." :dazed:

Which fat broad is he referring to? :roll:

[SopranoSue]

Yikes!!! I ain't touchin' that one with a 10-foot walking stick... :shock:

[electricninja]

Normally we'd assume that an upside-down mouthpiece means the sax is French. But then there's Selmer, the exception to the rule.

[goodsax]

All they had to do to complete the image of a seller trying to portray themself as not knowing anything about saxes is have the upside down mpc, and neck, point toward the bell. How many of those have you seen on eBay? Only difference is, these people are supposed to be sax dealers.

[goodsax]

All they had to do to complete the image of a seller trying to portray themself as not knowing anything about saxes is have the upside down mpc, and neck, point toward the bell. How many of those have you seen on eBay? Only difference is, these people are supposed to be sax dealers.

This is a prime example, and it's a Buffet-Crampon Super Dynaction!:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2553737571&category=16 234

[Jonno]

Does he seriously play test all his mouthpeices that he manufactures? Like he took 100 mouthpeices on tour ?
Does anyone have any facts on this (first hand knowledge only please! I hate heresay), I would be interested.

[Just Say Sax]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2555466127&category=16 233

Oh my, this one could be this weeks winner. The sax looks great! It's a Selmer II bari. But the description...well, I've never seen nothing like it!

[Billy The Fish]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2555466127&category=16 233

Oh my, this one could be this weeks winner. The sax looks great! It's a Selmer II bari. But the description...well, I've never seen nothing like it!

:shock:

Billy The Fish (Too stunned to speak - or has had the witches cast a silence spell on him)

[stitch]

Reckon he's been drinking some of that witches' brew himself.........

[Jonno]

Did you email Michael Brecker (assuming that michael himself even reads/answers his emails to "info" on his website) and see whether it is really his horn?

[calvinh]

Just Say Sax wrote:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2555466127&category=16 233

Oh my, this one could be this weeks winner. The sax looks great! It's a Selmer II bari. But the description...well, I've never seen nothing like it!
....................

OK, so I'm a newbie here and I don't know bari ... but isn't the neck missing from the photos? :?:

[stitch]

It's worth checking his past auctions - he had fun with a euphonium a few days ago.....

I'm not sure I share his sense of humour, but it made us all look!

[Just Say Sax]

email Michael Brecker? No way. I'm not worthy! Besides, even if by some one in a million chance he would read my email and answer my question, I would hate to waste it on THAT question.

[Dr G]

Over $400 for a RPC??? This guy certainly talked a good line... or someone was really confused... :?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2556789717

======



Winner!! viperprime (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=viperprime)

[Mike Ruhl]

Maybe the buyer doesn't know that he can get a new RPC for less than $300. Although I notice that the big .150 is no longer listed on Ron's website. www.saxmpc.com

[Dr G]

Hmmm, I've a friend with a spare .150 (or maybe it's a .160")... I don't know of too many people that have them. Maybe they really are RARE! :lol:

[Saxy Nate]

Over $400 for a RPC??? This guy certainly talked a good line... or someone was really confused... :?

The seller probably paid around 400-450 for it because it's custom and big. I've heard some of Ron's customs (not one that size) and was really impressed. Good tone, focus, blah, blah, etc.. In any case I see why it sold for what it did. :D

I'm So Saxy - Nate!

[Torti]

I think this one could be our week's winner :
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?MfcISAPICommand=ViewItem&item=255968 6155

======

Mod. note: while the seller's response to the negative feedback is amusing, the ad really isn't that over-the-top ...

[goodsax]

I think the seller might have been playing with one too many koalas. Did you notice he has 36 negatives in the last six months and 4 this month? <holding two index fingers as a cross> :twisted:

[rlowenote]

Yeah! "BUT OTHERWISE EXCELLENT RECORD!"

[goodsax]

True, rlowenote, but that number of negatives in such a relatively short period, sounds the alarm bells for me. 8)

[Sigmund451]

(psssst Goodsax) I think he was making a funny. :wink:

[goodsax]

Uh...okay. I usually spot the tongues in cheek, but failed to see it this time. My bad. :(

[Anji]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2560767091&category=16 232

So I asked him how many Ophicledes or Sub-contra Octaroons made the list of "Instrument Shaped Objects".

Only 100 of these lists are available!

====



Winner!
originalswab (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=originalswab)

While I assume that the ad is for a list of instruments for sale that aren't junk, the ad is presented in such a way that it easily can be misinterpreted and/or makes you go "hmmm". Not really over the top, but poorly worded enough to make me wanna give him an award. I also have seen someone else post on eBay that was fond of using the phrase "ISO" and I believe he's a past winner ...

[larry]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2560502656&category=16 234#ebayphotohosting

I just like the big "MB" scratched on the bell. Maybe it's one of Mikey Brecker's old horns and playing it will infuse you with the spirit of the master. Maybe not.

[miles_ahead_music]

Everybody down! He's gotta gun!!!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2560164273&category=16 232

[larry]

Everybody down! He's gotta gun!!!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2560164273&category=16 232
Must be one o' them big ol' B-flat altos... :roll:

[goodsax]

What does everyone think of this rare collector's dream?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2562682212&category=16 234

8)

=======



Winner!
nellak77 (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=nellak77)

This ad is far more over-the-top than the other ad, even though I do enjoy the idea of a real "killer horn". We may have to expand the award to "most amusing eBay ad", but I kinda like how we've restricted this ...

[Dave dix]

Its so rare the seller decided to keep it!!!!
Dave

[mm5agm]

Since it's my birthday today I thought I'd try to win the prize! Is this a winner ? I'm sorely tempted to auction one of my reeds. You know the one that only plays good notes :)

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2562567377&category=16 232

Colin

=======



Winner!
alleghenymusic (http://cgi2.ebay.co.uk/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=alleghenymusic)

The birthday card got lost in the mail ...

[dingfelder]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2560656829&category=16 232

good god! The corrosion !

this is a sick looking puppy :P

look at the 6th pic... i think that his enthusiasm should count for something :P

[Dave dix]

Why would a sax dealer sell this as is? Has excellent intonation!!!!
Yes i bet he played it and found it was excellent.
Those elkharts are a pretty good student horn ,its a pity Dominic didnt put a few pads in and tweeked it a bit.I would have thought selling a horn like that could damage his reputation a tad.At least selling it on ebay you can get rid of crap without putting a guarrantee on it.
Dave

[pknight]

What reputation? I have never heard anything very positive about this dealer.

[miles_ahead_music]

In defense of dealers who'd put something like that on eBay.

We are still so inundated with repairs on pro, college, high school, middle school and military horns that we could never get around to tending to some of the stuff that we've sold recently.

I'm not defending Dominic's, I don't know the guy. But for us, it wouldn't be cost effective to put any man hours into fixing up some real dicey older things that we get from time to time.

Now the nice horns that we know will bring a decent penny we'll make time to repair.

[Morry]

I've seen much better looking (and probably playing) saxes nailed up on the wall in a sports bar.

[Sigmund451]

Dominic has basically taken over the sax area at Yahoo auctions. Everyone else uses ebay. Miles, I hear what your sayin but Ive never seen a horn offered by him that was not either junk or absurdly priced. Sometimes they have been both. I guess it keeps him in business though. Maybe he really pays high rent for his shop and personal photographer.

[Morry]

Maybe he and Gary Sugal should take some "reality check" seminars or something.

[Dave dix]

It would have been better to describe the sax correctly.Someone may buy it thinking it does only need a small amount of work to get it up and running not $500 worth to end up with an expensive piece of metal that would only ever be worth $200 in the first place.
Dave

[Torti]

Have a look at this one :
http://cgi.ebay.fr/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2561433383&category=62 4
:shock: :dazed:

[Dave dix]

At least the mouthpiece is the right way up!!
Dave

[Pete]

It is possible that I'll give DOMINIC a lifetime achievement award :). I am happy he finally got that caps lock key fixed. That alone deserves an award.

We've got some good ones this week, folks. Considering I'm using my work machine and it hasn't (yet) blown up while I'm posting here, I should be able to add some more awards next week.

Remember: submissions are weekly, from Saturday to Friday (e.g. October 4 thru October 10)!

[Hurling Frootmig]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2562141844&category=16 234

While it is a really nice looking example of a student Buescher Aristcrat it's not worth $1500.

[miles_ahead_music]

It was really no surprise to see that among the last few things this guy sold on eBay was a ceiling fan, a mitre saw and Rotosip Rebel.

Not a whole lot of sax prowess going on there!

[danidin]

A vintage L.A sax ??

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3148828994&category=73 6 :P

[miles_ahead_music]

A vintage L.A sax ??



Yeah. It was Richard Elliott's!

[soulysax]

This guy claims to be selling Sanborns sax. Says Dave doesn't get the ebay thing so he asked him to sell it. Right like our friend David has no connections to get rid of his horns!!! Maybe he could have thrown in an autograph or something.

Wait lets check this guys other auctions. Maybe he has Phil Woods old Selmer and look there is Mikey Breckers 80,000 tenor

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2564026921&category=16 232

[doc]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2662232554&category=16 232

Claims to be a mint condition GOLD PLATE nogales horn. I have my doubts?

beware-

doc

[werkinsnake]

For those of you who thought that the Grafton Plastic Sax wasn't odd enough, get a look at this.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2563199781&category=10 184&sspagename=rvi:1:2

Actually, I'm almost tempted to buy it for kicks. Unfortunatly it's not on my priority list. If anyone buys this thing, let us know what it's like.

[werkinsnake]

Hmmmm, says that some Columbian hippy made this thing. I wonder if it is a saxophone or a bong. :lol:

[water baby]

I think you can double on it ....as a bong that is :roll:

[timk]

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2565515330&category=16 232

very rare? v overpriced more like it.

[paullanfermeijer]

High Pitch is the 7M model: lot of trouble playing with others! Pitch is higher than the normal 440 hz (I believe 448 or more?)

In fact it is a rare model: no one wants them and there are not a lot of them. :lol:
Wall-deco ?

paul

[gary]

Hmmmm, says that some Columbian hippy made this thing. I wonder if it is a saxophone or a bong. :lol:Is there any doubt? :twisted:

And I love this phrase: "Easy to play if you know how to play."
Uh. Yeah!

[stitch]

How about this one: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2565598327&category=16 234

====



Winner!
turnipcats (http://cgi2.ebay.co.uk/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=turnipcats)

The Columbian sax ISO wasn't bad, but the quote, "Easy to play if you know how to play" was deleted from the ad at some point. That means that this is the winner.

[timk]

High Pitch is the 7M model: lot of trouble playing with others! Pitch is higher than the normal 440 hz (I believe 448 or more?)

In fact it is a rare model: no one wants them and there are not a lot of them. :lol:
Wall-deco ?

paul

i think about 454hz. ok for playing on your own, but dont go near a group!

perhaps the better comment would be rare does not equal desireable!

[werkinsnake]

I take it that the 7m is the high pitched counterpart of the 6m. I'm not an expert at the model names of the high pitched CONNs (no reason to be one), but the split bell key design would suggest that it is a New Wonder model (also evident with the 1923 manufacturing date). Like I said, I am not an expert at the high pitched horns. If anyone has any insight on this, please explain it to me. Thanks.

[Pete]

The Conn horns were called 6M (etc.) since about 1920. The "New Wonder" model name actually wasn't used that often, even in advertisements. Not really suprising when you consider Conn only made a professional model and the Pan American, not counting stencils.

The "Naked Lady" horns' actual model name is "Artist", according to the catalogs I've seen. "Transitional" was never a model name, but it's convenient to use to refer to those funky looking horns in the 1930's.

For more, see my website: www.saxpics.com/conn

Sorry to say, the ad's not that over-the-top :cry:

I have picked a winner for Oct. 4 through the 10th.

[dingfelder]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2564601939&category=16 232

[quote:efae60c235]IT IS A COMBINATION BETWEEN THE PROJECTION AND BRILLIANCE OF A MARK VI SOUND AND THE FULLNESS AND BODY OF A KING SUPER 20 WITH THE SMOOTH ACTION OF THE SUPER ACTION 80.Z/quote:efae60c235]

lol Dominic does it again :wink:

[danidin]

What repeatedly surprises me, that he basically gives the same description for all the Monique, DC alto, soprano and tenor he sells: that is they are all
a combination of mark VI, super 20, super action, superman etc... and
that he was not able "to put them down after playing on them" which
means that he his walking with 20 moniques on his neck...
:P

[Anji]

SO - who's left from the EC?

[Pete]

I need someone to design a lifetime achievement award for me to highlight Dominic's contributions. (It's a darn shame that the caps lock key is broken on his computer again. I know! The lifetime achievement award is a new $5.99 keyboard from Fry's! (www.outpost.com))

I've heard that people are actually trying to compete for these weekly awards. Can anyone confirm that?

[werkinsnake]

I've heard that people are actually trying to compete for these weekly awards. Can anyone confirm that?

Saxpics, what do you take us for? :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:









...ok, well since you asked, yes we are.

[dingfelder]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2566816956&category=16 233

this one is classy... it is so understated. simple and to the point. :D

[Morry]

Dominic's ads all just say "Purple Alto Sax", "Fire Red Soprano Sax", etc. Man, if you're just buying a sax because of it's color, you deserve the piece of excrement that you get.

[Morry]

I've got to say that, if I had an extra $9900 just laying around that I could spare, I'd probably buy that Mark VI from USA Horn. Keep it another 20 years and my estate could sell it to some Japanese collector for twice that.

====



Winner!
USA Horn (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=usa-horn)

Reason for inclusion: high price and the fact this auction was relisted three or four times, when it failed to get a single bid. This company does sell some decent stuff, folks, such as the second Jimmy Dorsey Selmer I've ever seen.

As mentioned, Dominic needs a lifetime achievement award, otherwise I'd give him the weekly award almost every week. He's the standard this all award-contenders should be measured by.

[Sigmund451]

I dont want no stinkin purple horn. I want stripes.

[Manny]

I think I would like some type of plaid...or maybe camoflauge

[dingfelder]

polkadots so you can play the polka :)

[dingfelder]

this must have made the rounds before... if not, here is the winner :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2567219556&category=16 233

[werkinsnake]

That is odd. It's a Smurf playing a saxAphone. I never played one of those.

[werkinsnake]

And as a public service announcement, DO NOT FALL INTO THE HYPE OF THIS ADD KIDDIES!!!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3248899952&category=81 4

Hmmmm, you think that we would have learned from Desmonds mistake.

[Metro Gnome]

$8,000 and no bids, it didn't sell.... Mmmmmm what could be the problem here, no intrest....

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16233&item=2566843 499

I know! lets re-advertise, only this time, rather cunningly, we'll up the price! this is bound to generate more interest.... This time $8,400

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16233&item=2568377 350

[soulysax]

Here is one for you. Supposed to be a limited production Sanborn mouthpiece. Ad says not a Dukoff but sure couldn't tell. Looks like a Dukoff with engraving on it.

Bidding starts at $400 and reserve not met. Probably not worth that even if it is legit.

Anyone have an engraver? I think its time to look in the mouthpiece drawer for some junk err investments.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2568371486&category=16 232

====



Winner!
milkguitar (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=milkguitar)

Comment: it was a toss-up this week between this or the Smurf ad. While the Smurf ad was exceedingly colorful, it didn't have that many "over-the-top" quotes, such as "The best ever made!!"

[goodsax]

Here's one that should be high on the list:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2566787343&category=16 234

It's a "pre-war" Conn tenor with a starting bid of $2000 by a seller with "0" feedback from Fruita, CO. No photos, minimal description, except that it is as good as gold. Anybody interested?

[madav]

check this out then - just zhat you want for Xmas, and only 23,000 USD...

http://cgi.benl.ebay.be/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2568688312&category=30 8

[soulysax]

Madav,

You win. That is the the craziest of them all. If I only had an extra $20k

[cujo]

Wow a vintage style sax thats plays midis!

[Dave dix]

I see Adolphe is back again.
Perhaps he never sold before or the new owner wanted to get in their own house without Adolphe in the way
Dave

[paullanfermeijer]

$8,000 and no bids, it didn't sell.... Mmmmmm what could be the problem here, no intrest....

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16233&item=2566843 499

I know! lets re-advertise, only this time, rather cunningly, we'll up the price! this is bound to generate more interest.... This time $8,400

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16233&item=2568377 350

And again but now for a "normal"price ???
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16233&item=2570178 738

Paul

[Dave dix]

Worldwide sax has an earlier mk6,re-built(french standard rebuild) new pads etc for less than half the price of us horns bari.
Obviosly the name selmer with mk6 with it was just too much for them so they thought lets find a gullible person and rip him off!!!
Perhaps Dominic might be interested in it?
Dave

[Frank D]

Not exactly over the top, but I had to laugh at this ad for the Selmer "Expendable Ligature". Does that mean that it isn't necessary?


http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2570098780&category=38 112

[Dave dix]

They do look funny.I have one of these ligs,never tried it.It came in a case with a sax i bought from USA. (A TENOR MARTIN MASTER).
Didnt know the value,i may give it a try and may sell it cos i have many ligs and i dont think i could trust this one.but you never know it may be good!!!!
Dave

[Frank D]

I have one as well, they're OK, no big deal.

My point was the seller described it as "expendable" meaning you can do with out it. I think she meant "expandable" meaning adjustable.

[Hornlip]

This isn't the most over-the-top auction, but it may be the most disgusting mouthpiece auction, ever:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2568830957&category=16 232

:o
====



Winner!
wendysworld (http://cgi2.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=wendysworld)

Comment: True, not exactly over-the-top, but it got relisted -- and the comments here about this 'piece were priceless.

[Frank D]

The fuzz growing where the rails meet the table is a nice touch. No extra charge!

[sw3119]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2570772686&category=16 234

This instrument was specially selected for the instrument repairman of the U.S. NAVY BAND by the FACTORY PRODUCTION MANAGER for tonal accuracy and sound quality.


???

[cujo]

Maybe someone should change the green cork on the "alto sax" mouthpiece. If it really is for a sax I dont wanna know what it is that looks like a cork on it.

[Pete]

sw3119, I believe it was supposed to be ...


"This instrument was specially selected to be sent to the instrument repairman of the U.S. NAVY BAND by the FACTORY PRODUCTION MANAGER because of the lack of tonal accuracy and sound quality"

The fuzzy mouthpiece ranks up there -- or is rank. One of the two. It's deserving of something.

==========

As I've posted in the FAQ, I will no longer be moderating this website as of 11/27/03, so I won't be able to specifically edit posts to tack on the awards (I just added some for the past two weeks, btb). I'll try to work out something with the new Moderator (whomever that may be) or Harri to keep these awards coming.

[werkinsnake]

This isn't the most over-the-top auction, but it may be the most disgusting mouthpiece auction, ever:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2568830957&category=16 232

:o

Hey Hornlip I found the horn that this mouthpiece belongs to. Check this old Buescher stencil out.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2569840611&category=16 232

[stitch]

How could anyone possibly resist: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2571357582&category=38 097?

====



Winner!
bish1971 (http://cgi2.ebay.co.uk/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=bish1971)

[paullanfermeijer]

Stitch,

Sun-glasses included??

Paul :D

[Anji]

To stand in front, while you call AAA to tow your Ford Escort?

"Yeah man, it broke down again! I was just on my way to jam with Mick and the Stones, too. I'll have to whip Gianni into shape at the dealers."

Just think... a sax like that would be a great place to store your hair gel.

[saxlife]

Where do you get a leather jacket for $99.95? Wal-Mart?

[Keith]

This isn't the most over-the-top auction, but it may be the most disgusting mouthpiece auction, ever:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2568830957&category=16 232

:o

Hey Hornlip I found the horn that this mouthpiece belongs to. Check this old Buescher stencil out.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2569840611&category=16 232

Werkinsnake
I think that is a clarinet piece. Look at the pictures, there is something that looks like cork.

[werkinsnake]

It could also be a cleverly cultured strip of mold. :D

Seriously though, it does look like there was a clarinet mouthpiece underneath the mold. My fault. I should have known that no sax player would ever let their mouthpiece look like that.

[jp3]

Definitely a "players" piece.

[soulysax]

For $2,000 couldn't this guy have thrown in a Dave Koz sax too?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2573352703&category=16 232

[soulysax]

UHH I gues there is a sax included. Hope nobody who sweats buys it. I would hate to see those valuable signatures rub off. :roll:

[Dave dix]

Whowants a taiwanese alto for a wall piece unless you laquer over the autographs. The bell springs look a bit weak in the photo and how long did they each play the alto for?
Dave

[yillb]

I think that's David Sanborn's actual reflection in the bell! OOPS! sorry, just a ding... :wink:

[danidin]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2573704571&category=16 234

This one is so small it cannot be noticed in a picture.... :shock:

[goodsax]

Check the shipping cost on this Yamaha YTS-21 tenor sax:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2572473359&category=16 234

:roll:

[dingfelder]

darn, bidding has ended. I wanted that horn. Any yas 21 selling for over a grand must be good :lol:

[doug]

Say what???....
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2574536687&category=16 232

[Hornlip]

Heh!! Maybe he was bored.

Hmm. Actually, I'm a bit inspired . . . yes, yes, there's a vintage reed I've got some collector has just got to have, I'm sure of it. . . . 8)

[pknight]

Did you notice that in one of the photos is a reed that has been drilled, as Bootman recommends?

[Pete]

The seller has been around eBay for quite awhile and used to have some very nice pictures. He is probably aware of this Forum, if not an actual poster here.

Excellent entry for this week's award, though.

He might have wanted to include the phrase, "These are new reeds, not used!"

[Randall]

Maybe some Tilex would help this horn. Read the description!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2573421020&category=16 232

[werkinsnake]

Odd I don't C-Moldy :shock:

Well, I guess that he meant that UMI bought out CONN and KING. I had to read that line twice to make sense of it.

[mm5agm]

I had a tear in my eye after reading this

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2576152708&category=35 9

Colin

[mm5agm]

My wife just read the advert and she reckons it should be for a violin !!!!

[Dave dix]

What a wonderful imagination he has!Hope he gets a good bid for that one.
Is the soprano a Martin stencil? looks like one.Shame the m/p is rammed on the cork so far and upside down but a pretty clean sax.
Dave

[soulysax]

The sax or the wife must go HMMMMMMMMM I guess he thought he could get more for the sax.....

[Dr G]

"la Fleur" must be a stencil. Anyone recognize it?

[Dr G]

Hey Dave, sorry that I read right through your post. Yes, the beveled toneholes do have that Martin look about them. Too bad it's probably an American stencil rather than a European one. The Euro-stencils, unlike those of 'merican heritage, were usually top-notch horns.

[FireRescueFL]

That horn is extremely rare and commands a high price... it's the only sax in the world that is meant to be played with the mouthpiece upside-down.

[Manny]

at least he got the ligature right side up...

[AltoRedux]

I cant take credit for finding this. Someone over on the C-Melody board found it. Anyway, if you're looking for an "otherwise, fully playable" C-Mel maybe you should bid - mind you it's already up to $150.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2576340732&category=10 184

[10mfan]

OK.....

Here is the top fraud case of the week, in my opinion.
Its ebay#2576148409
sorry, I dont know how to put the direct link up for you. Someone please help me out with that.
Thanks!!!!

[werkinsnake]

Here is the URL that 10mfan was trying to send. It's a very expensive Mark VI alto.


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2576148409&category=10 184



I'm not sure if I would call it fraud, but it is more expensive than what I've seen most VI's go for. But I'm sure that this one is "Exceptional" and "One of a Kind" and "The best ever made" and "You will never find a better Mark VI". Wow, these VI adds are becomming cliche. :?

[soulysax]

I can't see the fraud here either. What you have is a very nice original 5 digit Mark VI. $6,000 might be high for ebay but there are buyers at that price. Saxquest is asking $6,500 for a minty 149,xxx alto.

[hornstar]

Right now the market it hot, so more people are willing to part with their primo horns, which drives prices up more.

Hey, it's not as much as a new car, and you could drive that Mark VI for the rest of your life. :wink:

[10mfan]

well, lets see...
1.the buyer has zero feedback, but keeps upping his own bids, even after he hit the reserve. $5500 (i've been closely watching this one).
2. the seller has zero feedback, but has been an ebay member for 3 years.
3. the seller is supposedly from the U.S. (NEW YORK), but is selling his horn in U.S. dollars, but gives us the equivalent in "pounds"?
I sell alot of stuff, and my friends sell alot of stuff. you never see U.S. sellers listing their price also in pounds. Its always the EURO sellers that list their price in Euro, and give us the U.S. equivalent.

Come on guys.
p.s. that horn at saxquest was my friend Robs' horn, who traded it to Mark at saxquest. that was a real beauty.

[paulwl]

More supply drives UP prices? Hmm... :?

Uusually, economics dictates that the more there are of a thing, the less it's worth. Then again, there is no real economics of collectibles, because collectors as a species are too variable. Although the movements of individuals are sometimes pretty predictable, especially if they leave tracks on eBay.

Hard to apply this to Mk VIs, though, 'cause it's such a big market. You'd have to look for patterns, like say...bidder id <hornfetish> always bids early/often on unengraved silver 5 digit tenors, or bidder <ocdsax> will snipe all comers to get a high F# alto in the #140k block, original Paris lacquer not less than 85%.

<bidder names fictitious. I hope.>

[soulysax]

10m

Sorry, I missed all those clues. Just looked at the sax. I would run from this one too.

Ebay Trends
Yes, ebay works different than the real world. There seem to be hot spots. A seller is able to get $6,500 for a nice Selmer and all of sudden 3 more show up. This usually lasts about 2-3 weeks and all the high $ bidders seem to go back into hiding. We just had a run of 2-3 nice super balanced tenors going in the high $6,000 range.

[10mfan]

soulysax,
how are you? that berg i got from you just wasnt for me. i cant seem to get used to the metal feel. i'm gonna stick to the big, fat tonalin i play on, and will continue to search for more of those pieces.
keep your eyes open for an open tonalin for me if wou would.
thanks! :D

[werkinsnake]

10mfan,
I am impressed. That was a great eye you had looking for clues like that. Funny, everything that you mentioned are things that I usually look for while shopping on eBay. Hmmmm, all of that Turkey must me slowing me down. :shock:

[10mfan]

thanks bro!
but dont kid yourself, that turkey, mashed taters, stuffing, bread, gravy, cranberry sauce, etc, etc...has slowed us ALL down!!!
do you get out to see eric kloss at all? what a fantastic musician!

[goodsax]

Check carefully the close-up of the neck and compare it to a MK VI neck. Heck, compare it to the one on the sax.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2576640276&category=16 234

It's not suspicious enough that the price is well below the going market value of a MK VI tenor, the neck discrepancy adds fuel to that flame. And yet, there are 19 bids with 8 hours to go as of this post.

8)

[MJ]

I like this ad, though not about saxophones, there is a lot of truth in the seller's text:

http://cgi.msn.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2575978891&category=47 098

[soulysax]

MJ,

Did you take a good look at this guys feedback? 12 negatives. The negatives seem to have the same theme- guy uses insults as a way of manipulation.

I am concerned when someones manner of speech is always negative and insulting. You simply can't make them happy because they are not happy.

The ad is over the top though so may just get the prize on this one.

[MJ]

You're right, Soulysax, the EBay seller is "ify" for anyone considering doing business with him. It is evident in a sarcastic and darkly humorous way that the seller himself has been burned in Ebay transactions. Got to admire his quirky text, though.

[Smokin' Joe]

Don't forget the$12 shipping and handling and also the $1 required for insurance. MY,MY WHAT A BARGAIN !!!! javascript:emoticon(':roll:')
javascript:emoticon(':roll:')

[Smokin' Joe]

:wink: Maybe this is a better emoticon

[dingfelder]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2579705537&indexURL=1& photoDisplayType=2#ebayphotohosting

Usally it costs at least $600.00 to produce this quality type of Full bodied sound.

This is a remarkable one of a kind instrument that has an unbelievable Full sound, affordable and portable, a great gift for beginers or proffessionals

has an Alto mouthpiece and sounds much like a Tenor Saxophone

[mm5agm]

cmon guys and gals - you've got to have this soprano

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2366047482&category=16 203

It is over TWO FOOT TALL and a one piece item.

Colin

[wthalliii]

Check this one out. "This horn has combined some of the best features of 3O years of Buescher manufacturing."

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2579455474&category=16 232

[OLDAIR]

It is barley used. I wonder - do you pour the beer into the bell or the neck? Does it work if you just pour the beer into the saxplayer and breathalize the sax?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2366831461&category=30 8

[dogreb]

Speaking of colorful ebay ads, this one is good for laughs. Sorry, not a sax posting but worth the (long) read:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2448756945

Doug

[cujo]

dogreb I think the best part of that listing is all the comments he has added later. Quality listing. I think Ill bid on it for fun

[miles_ahead_music]

WOW! This has got to rank as the world's nicest Mark VII.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2365984683&category=16 234

[Jonno]

He doesnt sell us on the features much does he!!

I didnt know they had mark VII with nickel keys? I knew some VIs had them, but not VIIs.....

[Paul Coats]

My favorite was an ad for a C Melody, "that might have been played by Bird or Coltrane or one of those cats."

[PA-Sax]

I have to get this one it must be real rare!!! Wish hterre was a picture...maybe its in a vault and can't be photographed.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2369715384&category=16 232

[Dan000892]

Just dropped that guy an email. Can't wait to find out just what that sax is...

[miles_ahead_music]

Pay me the $2400 or I'm gonna do something crazy. I swear man, I'll drop it...I will!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2370462446&category=16 234#ebayphotohosting

[Randall]

Miles,

"...speically made, Silver plated, Meyer mouthpeice, hadrshell case. Beautful comdition, maticusley maintained since bought..."

I have finally found someone on the net with more typos and transpositions than me! :P

I particulary like "maticusley maintained"!

[Ytrac Productions]

Just spotted this one....no pic, new seller, no feedback, bidder Ids kept private, only accepts Money Order.....and in Canada. Silver 1968 Mark VI baritone Sax, no reserve....what do you guys think?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2370680307&category=16 233

[Ytrac Productions]

Just spotted this one....no pic, new seller, no feedback, bidder Ids kept private, only accepts Money Order.....and in Canada. Silver 1968 Mark VI baritone Sax, no reserve....what do you guys think?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2370680307&category=16 233

[goodsax]

I stay away from obviously under-priced big four saxes being sold by "0" feedback sellers wanting money orders only...not a good combination.

[dingfelder]

7 bids, all identies hidden. (thinking SCAM)

[miles_ahead_music]

Tremendous marketing ploy!

If you act now you'll also get the Ginsu cutlery and the Vegg-o-matic.


http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2369274653&category=16 232#ebayphotohosting

[Morry]

What they don't tell you is that you can make better music on the watches.

[TRWham]

Forget those watches- they include a new reed, how can you go wrong with such a great deal?

[danidin]

Would you prefer to get a new saxophone for every watch you buy? :P

[miles_ahead_music]

I can't really call this one "over the top" but I do have to say that this guy is one heck of an optimist!

..and besides that, I like to keep this thread near the top.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2372943358&category=16 232

[goodsax]

Too bad he isn't asking a more reasonable price, those "extra" keys inside the right palm keys look intriguing, a little like the C-D trill key on my V. Kohlert and Sons alto. But, I only have one of those keys, I see two on this old Holton. They couldn't have thought of an F# that early, could they? It doesn't look like the Rudy Wiedoff I saw a few months ago on another forum and on eBay.

[cujo]

Wow it even comes with a pad saver. No wonder it needed to be professionally restored.

[miles_ahead_music]

WHY?!?!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2373374625&category=16 232#ebayphotohosting

[MJ]

Some possible reasons why:

We've all heard of champagne music. This is a "pink champagne" saxophone.

One can play the saxophone and make a political statement at the same time.

Some players are "summers," who appreciate warm skin tones enhanced by the hot saxophone finish.

Pink is in this season.

[Dave dix]

This has got to win,you could always cut out both ends to convert an alto to low A and have plenty of wind to back it up!!!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2979406798

[twowheels]

This has got to win,you could always cut out both ends to convert an alto to low A and have plenty of wind to back it up!!!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2979406798

Oh yeah...and you can tell from the feedback profile that the seller is on the level!

:twisted:

[dingfelder]

he isnt a bad boy, his responses are clearly telling the truth


Complaint : TIME WASTER.. never paid or got in touch, dont sell to this person.
Response by badboyrice - daughter was seriously ill in hospital i did contact and send payment at 1st opp


Complaint : I was messed around. did not sell. putting item back on ebay
Response by badboyrice - was new to ebay wasnt sure how things worked plus we got our wires crossed soz

lol, he has bought 7 items and he is new to ebay :oops:

3 out of 7 being bad isnt too sorry of a state is it ? :twisted:

[twowheels]

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2979406798

You talked me into cutting him some slack, think I'll go bid on this item. Oh DARN...it's already ended. And look! There was a winning bid which is SURELY not a shill.

:mrgreen:

[Mike Cesati]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3700108195&category=1

With this great horn you'll really be able to hear yourself well. :D

[Mike Cesati]

well I guess the link isn't correct but the item# is 3700108195

[mangojango]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3700640437&category=16 234


Order now, and we'll throw in a fat kid in hockey gear!! Act now, suppies are running out!

[TRWham]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3700781164&category=16 232

How 'bout this to go with the pink Buescher?

[miles_ahead_music]

Huh?




http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3701903597&category=16 232

[justbob]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3701480158&category=47 097

A minor what? at the what? end. :shock:

I have to grab the Buy It Now, fast. :wink:

[ashkelon]

I gotta watch this one! I've got a '20's King C mel with 15 or 20 reeds in similar condition. no doubt the hand of God's kept me from pitching them... Maybe I'll make enough to pay Ranall :lol:

[T.J]

I was actually looking for a Marting tenor -
and almost choked on this one.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3703052281&category=16 224

[tbone]

Man, I've got two silver Conn C-mels. I think I'm going to have to paint them purple :!: :lol:

[stitch]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3700781164&category=16 232

How 'bout this to go with the pink Buescher?


Man, I've got two silver Conn C-mels. I think I'm going to have to paint them purple :!: :lol:

Apparently Conn produced coloured saxes in the 20s (see http://saxontheweb.myforums.net/viewtopic.php?t=5592&highlight=); it looks like this sax still has the original white pads - might it have come out of the factory that colour?

[Dave dix]

That conn is,indeed, original complete with its purple laquer and i wish i was the owner.
Dave

[WriterMom]

My vote goes for this one:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3704237023&category=62 0

I especially like this part: "Please note that the finish of these saxophones aren’t very good with chrome plating chipping off at places. Minor dings /dents/scratches are to be expected. It is otherwise fully functional can be used for decoration purposes." :lol:

[Carter]

The Master of Understatement:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3706076395&category=16 233

"This horn has some dents and scratches."

Ya think?

[wthalliii]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3705861343&category=14 57

"KENNY G - EASY SOLOS FOR SAXOPHONE

12 of his best for the beginning player, including:

Table of contents
Esther
Forever In Love
Going Home
Home
I've Been Missing You
Midnight Motion
Sade
Silhouette
Songbird
The Wedding Song
Tribeca"

Wait a minute! I think I've heard him play that first song!

:P

[shmuelyosef]

The Master of Understatement:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3706076395&category=16 233

"This horn has some dents and scratches."

Ya think?



"This should make someone a great old player after the proper servicing is done."

PIECE OF CAKE...HUH?

[dingfelder]

PIECE OF CAKE...HUH?

lol, looks like a piece of twisted Licorice to me :D

[miles_ahead_music]

The world's nicest Buescher True Tone alto sax!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3705928517&category=16 232


Not really, but at that starting bid it's gotta be something special!

[Dave dix]

Its not a t/tone but a bit expensive opening bid
Dave

[miles_ahead_music]

Okay, okay, Aristocrat.

But a very stron opening bid!

[Saxer00]

id trust this auction!!!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3708461812&category=16 232

[Sax Hut]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3713015459&category=30 8


This guy must be wiggin' out .... He has two student bundy tenors and one Mk6 alto for sale, each at this price ! Why not add another zero or two?

[WriterMom]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3713015459&category=30 8


This guy must be wiggin' out .... He has two student bundy tenors and one Mk6 alto for sale, each at this price ! Why not add another zero or two?

Is it my imagination, or do the keys on that sax look bright green?

[shmuelyosef]

It's your imagination...but note that this is an Eb Tenor...that IS rare!!

[miles_ahead_music]

Hence the $10,000.00 proce tag.

They just don't make 'em like that anymore!

[sw3119]

Look again. He has three horns, all listed twice on the same day.

[Dweekie]

This isn't saxophone related, but I thought it sure qualified as over the top.

Title, content, pictures, it has it all!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2995574316&category=31 820

[Media Lint]

Man that Holton alto for $1,100. :shock: Hey I have one of those, and it plays ... where's my camera, I've got an auction to list! :wink:

[pat_27]

Here's a classic:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3712347675&category=16 234

[miles_ahead_music]

Do you think he's telling the truth?

[bari_sax]

You have to see this "lig" to believe it.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10182&item=3714202 423

PS I have some vacation property in Arizona to sell ya.

[JimD]

I have some vacation property in Arizona to sell ya.

Ya wanna buy a bridge to put on that?

[keithm]

your too late, there's a guy on ebay selling land in Arizona at $700 an acre :lol: [/quote]

[MJ]

Those velcro ligs also would make handy ties for all the loose cords in the back of a computer.

[Dweekie]

Here's a way to catch a breeze.....

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=1467&item=29978043 26&rd=1

I can't decide what's worse, being the seller or being the bidder.....

[miles_ahead_music]

I'm so glad that I can throw my old tennis ball can away!

[rodelliot]

Hey mac, gimme a Selmar, and make it a full sized one!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10184&item=3717659 129&rd=1#ebayphotohosting

[rodelliot]

PUT DOWN THE CRACK PIPE AND COME OUT WITH YOUR HANDS UP!!!

A pretty decent price for a RIA mouthpiece but check out the S&H would ya?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=38112&item=3723876 719&rd=1

[Morry]

Does the little ebay award stamp say "ad of the weel"?

[schnibs]

sorry, off topic, but had to post just to bring the replies up to 300. :D

[john]

rodelliot,
This guy has a bunch of these all with outrageous shipping/handling fees. I've emailed him to ask if those are right (he's also made it onto other SOTW threads). He's not responded.

I suspect that he's just using this as a method of dodging ebay fees since ebay charges on final price not TOTAL price. Still not a bad price on a RIA.

john

[rodelliot]

He responded to me. He said it was just part of his profit.

There ya go!

[duckmaster1089]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3700108195&category=1

With this great horn you'll really be able to hear yourself well. :D

He also has the mouth piece upside down

[kepa]

Here's a way to catch a breeze.....

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=1467&item=29978043 26&rd=1

I can't decide what's worse, being the seller or being the bidder.....

Cool that guy got a free dolla

[rodelliot]

A good healthy dose of opptimism never hurt anyone!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=3727801 637&rd=1

[Hurling Frootmig]

I saw that one. Appraisal price doesn't equal selling price.

[cc]

Wow! The prices of those SELAMER tenors is getting up there. That wonderful description and those detailed pictures sure make it tempting.

[russps]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=3726498 875&rd=1 .

Enjoy

Russ

[JMac]

Ok- slay me for bringing back a 'dead thread', but when I read the headline "Rarest Vintage Alto Saxophone ever Look!" I though this could fit nowhere else. I enjoy the tale of the ship sinking in the Med., but is any of this true?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=3746382 984&rd=1
Totally handmade? In LA? Why were they on a ship in the Med? Looks like something I would bid on, in spite of what appears to be hyperbole to the uninformed (me), that is if I weren't still recovering from my last GAS attack. Good luck on it Rob!

[Pete]

I'm happy someone revived this thread. I think I'll have to let the other Mods have access to this area to add awards ...

The Olds super ISN'T the world's rarest sax, that'd be the A. Sax original prototype C bass :), but the shipping thing may be true and I've heard it a couple of times: the Olds Super alto and tenor were intended for distribution to military musicians stationed overseas in WWII. Allegedly, one of the ships transporting the majority of these horns overseas was sunk.

Anyhow, these horns are probably manufactured by Martin, during their interesting association with Reynolds. Also, if you're wondering, Olds had an entire line of Super instruments and most folks say these horns were quite high quality, regarless of whether Olds actually produced them.

The best description of these horns might be a Martin Committee ("The Martin") crossed with a Buescher 400 "Top Hat": the Super has a tone ring to go along with those bevelled tone holes.

I'll talk with Harri about the Awards :).

[JMac]

Thanks for the info, Pete! The beveled toneholes are a Martin trait. Now I just need to get that Ballard chap and scrounge up a bunch of divers and head to the Med. to find my motherlode!

If we're reviving the award, I do have another candidate - a 17th century saxophone. Made before Adolphe invented the instrument. Must have been from plans drawn by DaVinci. I don't know how they got SML to build it? http://cgi.aol.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=308&item=374565118 4&rd=1

BTW - who gets the award, the e-bay seller, or the SOTW finder :roll: ?

[Pete]

Sorta both. If you've seen some of the former award winners, the eBay advertiser is listed, but the actual award is listed in the SOTW'ers post (formerly added by yours truly after a week or so).

Just don't try to list eBay ads youself in hopes of winning an award :D.

[abadcliche]

I get an inordinately sized kick out of how many auctions there are for "Selmars"., as well as the highly prized "Buescner Aristrocarts".

[Pete]

By quasi-popular interest, I'm going to single-handedly bring back this award, although I'll tell the other Mods/Admins how to add the awards. I'll try to post an award a week, going from Thursday to Wednesday (I have to stay at work late on Thursday and get to play with the high-speed connection).

Start posting over-the-top sax-related ads again! Remember that my criteria are:

* In-your-face-over-the-top.
* No need to list DOMINIC'S ads. He's already won a lifetime achievement award :D.
* Unintentionally amusing works well.
* Over-the-top incorrect ads are great, too, such as the sax "Handcarved from silver" from China's Mingus dynasty that recently won an award. However, ads that just are flat wrong (e.g. misidentifying a metal clarinet as a soprano sax) without any other over-the-topness won't win.
* Whatever tickles my fancy.

Try to post the ad's text here (use [size=9]) and include the URL so we can all see it -- even after eBay does it's every-other-month prune.

[abadcliche]

amusing ebay ad http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=73465&item=3749028 918&rd=1

"Excellent silver alto saxophone




shipping cost $200.00;size:75cm*25cm;You are looking at Excellent silver alto saxophone;You can know the items is very excellent;This item is no any crack and no any chip. It is a typical artware of that time. And it is very important and significance for investigating the old chinese culture. if you win it you will get good lucky. it is very wonderful. It is in good condition, no crack and no chip. Look at the pictures you can see the shape is very well; So wonderful item . please don't miss it ! I have other wonderful item on my ebay . please view my other item!"

I don't know where to start on this one...

[rodelliot]

Thanks for the info, Pete! The beveled toneholes are a Martin trait. Now I just need to get that Ballard chap and scrounge up a bunch of divers and head to the Med. to find my motherlode!

If we're reviving the award, I do have another candidate - a 17th century saxophone. Made before Adolphe invented the instrument. Must have been from plans drawn by DaVinci. I don't know how they got SML to build it? http://cgi.aol.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=308&item=374565118 4&rd=1

BTW - who gets the award, the e-bay seller, or the SOTW finder :roll: ?

I really appreciate the fact that "EMS" is going to deliver the sax!

[sw3119]

How could anyone resist bidding on this gem!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=3750694 661&rd=1

[JMac]

Wow, if a word is worth $300, and a picture is worth a thousand words, then... how much will this ge worth when he puts up a picture?

AND..HE HAS 2 OTHERS JUST LIKE IT!! Is it the most understated e-bay ad, though?

Seller is also selling a very nice looking Couesnon tenor, the bidding is up to $699 and the reserve hasn't been met? I don't think I've seen one go for more than $500 on e-bay :scratch:

[Pete]

Just a reminder: the next award will be for submissions from 09-23 tp 09-29, provided I find the time :).

The last winner's actually listed in http://www.saxontheweb.net/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=20782. Congrats to rodelliot for finding that ad!

[HC]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=47098&item=3750952 380&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

It is actually a Clarinet, but does it really matter? :D


Professional quality clarinet in beautiful condition. Perfect for the serious clarinet player headed toward a music major in college and/or a professional career. I bought it new in 1991 as a music major in college and developed an allergy to the reeds. Otherwise I would not be selling it, I'd be playing it. Includes reed cutter, Larry Combs signature mouth piece, and hard shell case. We will only accept payment via money order prior to shipment. Shipping will be buyer's choice and expense.

Guess the guy never heard of synthetic reeds. :roll:

[JMac]

Over the top, or con-fused?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16203&item=3750039 753&rd=1

GORGEOUS, NEW 2005 STUDENT "SOPRANO" SAXOPHONE DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER! Fixed Price Item - ONLY $309.95 Each! [Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: $1,199.95] ~ WHY RENT WHEN YOU CAN OWN THE VERY SAME PRODUCT FOR PENNIES ON THE DOLLAR?! ~

This Beautiful Instrument Is Exclusively Endorsed And Strongly Recommended By Professional Concert Violinist JAROSLAV JOSEF KETTNER
COMPARE TO OTHER "STUDENT TRUMPETS" WITH SIMILAR FEATURES

I always take the word of a concert violinist when I purhcase a new "Soprano" saxophone and see no need to compare it to other similar trumpets :wink:

I feel kinda bad for making fun of a hard working family trying to sell what could be a decent hand made product....

============



Winner!

bizbuilderauctions (http://feedback.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=bizbuilderauctio ns)

[MJ]

Anybody buy one of those "soprano saxes?" The biggest joke is on us if the instruments are good players.

[Pete]

It's over-the-top AND confused. It'll be hard to beat this one.

=====

Edit: OK. I'm whimsical. I didn't see any submissions that were really over-the-top for last week. So no awards for you! As said, we've got a good entry for this upcoming week, tho.

[bruce bailey]

I sell those cheap sopranos for about $150 and they are really bad! I have people who just want the looks. They actually aren't too bad in the altissimo and have a decent sound but don't expect anything below bottom D to work and the intonation is really off.
I like the ad that says "beware of cheaply made instruments" and then shows one that they are selling.

[Carl H.]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=3752181 333&rd=1

WOW DONT MISS THIS

AMAZING OFFER!

SOUNDWAVESPLC_COM

EX DISPLAY ALTO SAX WITH SERIAL NO - PERFECT BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE LEVEL INSTRUMENT. VERY LITTLE USE SO MINIMAL USE ON KEYS AND PADS.

MADE IN THE USA

LOOKS AND SOUNDS AMAZING.

KIT COMES COMPLETE WITH:

*
ALTO SAX
*
PLUSH LINED CASE
*
REED

FEATURES INCLUDE:

* ENGRAVED CARVING ON BELL
* FULL RIB CONSTRUCTION
* PREMIUM PADS WITH TONE BOOSTER
* ADJUSTABLE HUMPERS ON ALL TONE HOLE COVERS
* ADJUSTABLE THUMBREST
* HIGH F# KEY
* SEPERATE PIVOT RODS ON LOW C AND D# KEY
* FULL ADJUSTMENTS ARE G#, G AND LOWER C#
* TILTING Bb SPATULA KEYS
* REMOVABLE BELL



And the pictures are of at least 2 different instruments.

=========



Winner!

soundwavesplc_com (http://feedback.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=soundwavesplc_co m)

From SAXPICS: My vote is FOUR different instruments. Yeah. I like fraud ads.

[pknight]

And the pictures are of at least 2 different instruments.

I don't think so. I just think that is what happens when you adjust the humpers.

[kcp]

Is it just me or the pads look to be pink ? :female:

[goodsax]

Is it just me or the pads look to be pink ? :female:

They do look pink, but that might be caused by the background material reflecting off the brass body onto the pads.

[xuanvu]

How about this one:

You are bidding on a Milwaukee Soprano Saxophone Straight Special Edition. This item includes the saxophone, case, and two mouth pieces: one curved, one straight. It is in like new condition except for the lacquer wearing off in one small place as indicated in the photo. Please refer to photos.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16203&item=3752015 206&rd=1

[rodelliot]

I've heard that the curved mouthpieces produce a better altissimo if you have the curve pointing upwards!

[rodelliot]

O.K., not sax related, but Holy Cow!!!

Just imagine if they'd have added the pics for this baby!

I was going to buy it but the shipping was too expensive.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=63551&item=3751801 903&rd=1

========

From SAXPICS: while I'm amused by this ad and others (like those selling air guitars, etc), they're not really MUSICAL ads. I think that if we do non-musical ads, you'll overwhelm me with these over-the-top/stupid ads.

So. Non-musical ads aren't eligible for awards. Sorry!

[Mark5047]

How much does it cost to list an item on EBay with a starting price of 3 mil? Sheesh...

[saxamaphonegirl]

Aaaaggggghhh!!!!!! My eyes!!!!! My Eyes!!!!! :dazed:

The ads themslelves may not be over the top, but the horns sure are!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=47098&item=3752225 417&rd=1

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=47098&item=3752322 724&rd=1

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=47098&item=3753383 990&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

Cool for ~$100. :)
I don't think there would be anything you wouldn't clash with!!!
Try and explain this one to a stuck up marching band or concert band director!! They stick you in the back of the band or tell you to go home!!

===========



Winner!

deuramusicsupply (http://feedback.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=deuramusicsupply )

Note that one of the Feedback entries says "No reply from emails, clarinet pieces dont even fit together"

[JimD]

There I was just about to opt for the green one when it turns out they only ship in the US. You lucky people.

[sax_appeal]

My vote is with the yellow one, it looks fantastic and it plays beyond perfect.

[Ari]

here it is:



http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=3753280 221&rd=1

If that didn't work just look for item: 3753280221

I think we've seen stuff from this fellow before. Note the subtle curve.[/url]

[AMASAX]

how 'bout this C Melody? Check out the 'mouthpiece' in one of the pics.

No wonder his 'son' quit playing it recently...is this s'posed to be a C Melody Bass Clarinet ????

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=3754426 978&rd=1

[Dave dix]

Perhaps his son was only 2 foot tall and it was the only way he could reach the mpc? Either that or a gorilla has been swinging on its neck
Dave

[Pete]

Yes, folks, I've been slacking for the past few weeks. Awards handed out for the past bit.

[Al Stevens]

Check out this auction.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&?ViewItem&item=3757598457

Under "Questions from other buyers" read the seller's reason he won't ship a French-made horn overseas." I almost spit my coffee all over my keyboard.

===========



Winner!

normangear (http://feedback.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewFeedback&userid=normangear)

saxpics: A very rare, "as soon as I see it, it gets an award", eBay ad.

===============

Oh. The comments:

Q: "I do not ship nor will I sell outside of the US. There are not enough of these horns to go around as it is, we want to keep the legacy alive here at home!" Huh? Are you aware that Selmer is a French company and the horn you are selling was made in France? C'mon, what's the real reason you don't sell overseas?
Answered on Oct-28-04

A: As I see it, the reason why these horns are going for so much money overseas is because they are very sparce or rare if you will overseas. Year after year here in the states we loose more and more of these instruments to people overseas who are willing to spend a few hundread bucks more and subsequently these horns are becoming even more difficult to find here in the states and thereby their price is going to extremes here where musicians (who historically are not known to be the richest people)cannot afford to play on real instruments any more. Sure these horns were made in Paris but they were made by an American company who distributed them in America. When we start doing different we will find that these horns will be as hard to find as Elvis and even harder to get your hands on. I sell these horns here because I myself am discouraged at where they have ended up and do not wish to contribute to the trend. Otherwise, why not ship overseas and make an extra buck?

Q: Will ship to worldwide?
Answered on Oct-27-04

A: I do not ship nor will I sell outside of the US. There are not enough of these horns to go around as it is, we want to keep the legacy alive here at home! Thank you just the same...

Q: Hi, what is the exact serial number please?
Answered on Oct-26-04

A: This is a nice 99,206 serial number....a very nice horn at that! Need more info?

[Neil Sharpe]

Only $15,000.00? This isn't exactly cheese spread.



http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=5534052474&category=19 270#ebayphotohosting/

[newking70]

Does it come with chips and a drink?

[Pete]

It somewhat saddens me that folks that have actual feedback to their names bid on this, but then I saw it was the zero feedbackers bidding in the $14K to $15K range (last "real" bid was $55), my faith in humanity was restored -- to a small extent.

Isn't that auction against eBay rules or something?

[bariman]

How do you mean, Pete?

[Pete]

Several different things:

* Fraud: misrepresenting an article for sale.
* Sheer tastelessness. Or bad taste. Or tastes bad (grilled cheese sitting out for several years :)).
* I thought there was a prohibition against selling "fake religious artifacts" or some such. Are we gonna start seeing auctions with pieces of "the one true Cross" for sale?

Hmm. I feel a Monty Python quote coming on ...

EDIT: I know it's generally jazzbluescat that says, "In your heart, you know I'm right", but the ad has been pulled, as I predicted.

[TRWham]

I know he's a reputable guy, but this seems a stretch:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=3760024 751

One picture and absolutely no description of the horn, and asking $12,000?

[Dave dix]

I will have two!!and be darn grateful he will sell to me
Dave

[saxchado]

Who's the bigger fool, the one who advertises at 12 Grand, or the one who pays it? One of these days, someone will pay a ridiculous sum like that, and all of a sudden everyone else will be expected to as well.

[Super 20 Player]

And here it is, Runyon fans: an empty Runyon box.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=3774667 890&rd=1

Check out the shipping charge.

[Saxturtle]

Here's another laffer...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=7314113450&rd=1

[Sigmund451]

Is that their way of saying it makes a better wall hanging than an instrument?

[Alessio]

I am on my 4th class, and I just needed an entry level sax that I could take to a shop and get it fixed if anything happened.
I saw DOminc's horns and I like them, I knwo eyes roll when you say you want a good looking intrument, but I just dont understand why, I mena, I want a carr that is confortable, but that also looks good, same thing for my furniture and the rest of stuff in my life, yes, I wanna make sure it fullfills its main purpuse, like in a Sax, good quality sound, but, what is wrong with not wanting the same golden thing everybody has?
Anyways, I went off track, my question is, can I learn with one of Dominic's Sax and then buy some super dooper sax if I ever get good at it? can I take it to the shop and have it repaired? or will it sound like horrible and shop owners will post a no trasspassing sing with my picture on it on their doors?

Merci

[Dave dix]

Before you go to Dominics do a search here on him first and see what others think!!!
Dave

[DirkW]

Alessio, welcome to SOTW!


I am on my 4th class, and I just needed an entry level sax that I could take to a shop and get it fixed if anything happened.
I suspect that you also want a horn that will play a scale in tune and is capable of a pleasing tone.

Please read this thread on beginner horns, especially the last couple messages: http://www.saxontheweb.net/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=20130

I suggest you also do a search on Dominic.

[JMac]

Quick you guys, this may be your last chance to get 'one of the first saxophones ever made'. Poor sod has the research to back it up...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=7315828453&rd=1

Hmm, what do they say about a little knowledge. I didn't know that Pan Am C-mels were so rare??

[SteveS]

Looks like a Conn stencil of some sort. Too bad this cat's "research" is mostly gibberish. So the first saxes were made about 1915, huh? Geez.... HAW!

[Hornlip]

Isn't this seller proud of his horn:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7325807116&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT

Now, I like Martin horns and all, but that's a plump nickel to put down on a Committee II Alto!!

What's really amusing/appalling is that somebody's bid on it. Either they're hopelessly without a clue, or in cahoots with the seller.

[retread]

That may be one-of-a-kind. The listing says it's an "E-melody" with "Ivory Keys".

[goodsax]

Someone has bid $4000 for that Martin????? Must be a shill. Gotta be. That's incredible!

[Sax Hut]

What's really amusing/appalling is that somebody's bid on it. Either they're hopelessly without a clue, or in cahoots with the seller.

Bingo.... you got it! That bidder was also the first bidder on the previous two auctions for which the seller has feedback. Blatant shill......

[Hornlip]

Bingo.... you got it! That bidder was also the first bidder on the previous two auctions for which the seller has feedback. Blatant shill......


Aha!!! :laughing:

[drakesaxprof]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7326421680&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&rd=1
:!:
Compared to that, this one's a bargain:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16234&item=7326423183&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW
;)

[retread]

That's got to be proof of insanity. :shock:

[Hornlip]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7326421680&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&rd=1
:!:


I bought a tenor sax off Ebay a couple of years ago that had a Brilhart clarinet ligature in the case. I put it up on Ebay & It went for something like $180.00 -- over $150, anyway. German guy & a Swede were the most interested -- the German won & said he had been looking for one just like it for years, to go with his Brilhart clarinet mouthpieces!!

[Budget Explosion]

I'm feeling cruel today...with two days left, I think I'll bid just to drive the price up. :D

[DirkW]

Here's one of the better eBay pictures I've seen:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10184&item=7325938680&rd=1

[drakesaxprof]

"THIS SALE IS FOR A VINTAGE HEIMER SAXOPHONE SERIAL#7201605.THERE IS A BROKEN PEICE WHICH NEEDS TO BE SOLDER,MOUTHPIECE IS MISSING,ONE VERY SMALL DING ON IT."

I've heard that the 700,000 Heimer's are really the finest...and I think we can find the "missing" mouthpiece! :D

[drakesaxprof]

I'm feeling cruel today...with two days left, I think I'll bid just to drive the price up. :D

The sad thing is, Art, that those buyers would like nothing better than to pay $500 for it. Because then, that's what it will be "worth." :?

[JMac]

Here's one of the better eBay pictures I've seen:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10184&item=7325938680&rd=1
Thanks Dirk - I needed a good laugh today. Even funnier, the thing is about 4 miles from where I sit right now, and is on the way home from work. If I'm not mistaken, the Heimer's were made in China on the factory tooling purchased from SML after they stopped making saxes?

I like the statement "PLEASE ASK FOR CLOSE UP PICTURES BY EMAILING SIMPLE WORDS". Words like dog, cat, he, she...? Ok, and I'll type them slowly because I know you don't read too fast. Yup, we ain't got much book lernin' in the 'Old Line State'.

[Ytrac Productions]

Jupiter 593 GL Bari Sax New NO RESERVE (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16203&item=7327556634&rd=1)

This seller is in China, yet the auction is in GBP, and shipping is calculated from UK first then worldwide...can you say....ah don tink so mahn!!!

[Hornlip]

Isn't this seller proud of his horn:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7325807116&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT

Now, I like Martin horns and all, but that's a plump nickel to put down on a Committee II Alto!!

What's really amusing/appalling is that somebody's bid on it. Either they're hopelessly without a clue, or in cahoots with the seller.

Well, it "sold". I wonder if it will resurface, or if it was 100% scam?

[Pete]

Hey! The thread's back in bizness!

I'll look into posting awars later. Busy!

[TRWham]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=7327180383&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

I think this qualifies as "over the top," if not quite award material. It may be a nice horn, but the price is absurd and many of the claims in the description are simply wrong. It isn't quite a scam, but is a reminder that, when shopping on eBay, you'd better know what you're buying or you can easily pay too much.

[Hornlip]

Mr. $4000.00 Martin Committee II Alto is at it again, though he started with a much lower bid this time:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7328692155&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT

"Chelsea927912", who bid $4000.00 and "won" the first auction, apparently coudn't come through with the dough -- but that hasn't stopped him from bidding on the horn the second go-round --right now he's the high bidder. Again.

Here's the old auction:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10184&item=7325807116&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

This guy is shameless. I bet the other bidder's a schill, too. 8-)

(Actually, the other guy is from Japan. I just sent him a note pointing out the old auction & winner. Hope he can read English!!)

[Hornlip]

Mr. $4000.00 Martin Committee II Alto is at it again, though he started with a much lower bid this time:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7328692155&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT

"Chelsea927912", who bid $4000.00 and "won" the first auction, apparently coudn't come through with the dough -- but that hasn't stopped him from bidding on the horn the second go-round --right now he's the high bidder. Again.


Chelsea927912 wins again!! Sheesh. I wonder what's next from this joker.

[cleger]

Jeez this guy is brazen, did you notice that under another Original Martin? (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7330966217&ssPageName=MERC_VIC_ReBay_Pr2_PcY_BID) is the same picture?

[blakngold4life]

anyone seen anything like this before?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10184&item=7331008735&rd=1

[Tully]

anyone seen anything like this before?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=10184&item=7331008735&rd=1

This being eBay, it shouldn't surprise me that someone actually bid on it, but it does nonetheless.

I wonder who repairs those things? :)

[Tully]

At least the $4000 Martin is a real instrument!

[Brendan Muse]

I found a Selmar knockoff: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16203&item=7329936463&rd=1

A Selman (in rare GREEN!): http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=7330424612&rd=1

and a story that seems a bit fishy to me: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=64454&item=7329955280&rd=1

[pknight]

A Selman (in rare GREEN!): http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=7330424612&rd=1


The feedback for this seller makes for interesting reading. Clearly there are a lot more problems than the percentage of negatives would indicate. (Positive feedback from a buyer asking when the instrument will be shipped????) Plus, the seller's responses to negative feedback are very nasty and unprofessional. Seems to be trying to intimidate anyone who might be critical.

[Dave dix]

This would be a cheap buy and easy to store
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7332223504&fromMakeTrack=true
Dave

[groovesax]

...and shipping that guitar would be a breeze. ;)

[Brendan Muse]

Hope it doesn't vanish ... into thin... oh, wait. Can't finish that thought. :roll:

[saxfree]

I know its not eBay, but check out how many high F# keys this thing has!

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0007W6TW4/sr=1-5/qid=1119805068/ref=sr_1_5/103-7045636-2158240?%5Fencoding=UTF8&n=11972111&s=musical-instruments&v=glance

[Tully]

Farther down on the Amazon listing, under the "customer who viewed this also viewed..." part, there is a lacquer-plated horn.

[Bernards20040]

Ummm Saxophone

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=620&item=7332500251&rd=1

[Tully]

Ummm Saxophone

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=620&item=7332500251&rd=1

I didn't know the folks in Hong Kong started using Australian dollars!

[Bernards20040]

You should see his other auctions for "Saxophones"
well one of them is anyway !!!!!!

[drakesaxprof]

Ah, the wonders of PhotoShop:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=16232&item=7333297299&rd=1
I hope Buzz realizes that it would be a bad idea to flip up his visor and try to play...even if sound did carry in a vacuum...with a backwards horn.
;)

[Ytrac Productions]

If this a scam? Or just somebody overbidding because they think its a scam?
Selmer Balanced Action Alto on ebay...$10,000?!?!? (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=64455&item=7333673902&rd=1)

[Canadiain]

If this a scam? Or just somebody overbidding because they think its a scam?

Hmm, Zero Feedback seller, Bidders identities hidden. Both of the above I think.

[Hornlip]

Chelsea927912 wins again!! Sheesh. I wonder what's next from this joker.


Well, looks like Chelsea927912 may will 'win' this horn for the third time:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7332548217&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT

[Sax Hut]

Heh heh, Hornlip, this time the lombago/chelsea team used a new tactic. Lombago canceled Chelsea's high bid 30 minutes before auction end (citing "money lost to bills" as his reason), leaving the guy in Japan holding the bag at $1200. I don't know if that price is too high or not, certainly not a candidate for this forum any longer, but real tricky routine by the seller/shiller team. By the way, I reported this auction twice to ebay over the past few weeks, and they never pursued it.

[Hornlip]

Heh heh, Hornlip, this time the lombago/chelsea team used a new tactic. . . .

Now that's slimy -- I noticed the japanese guy bought it, but I didn't know the second shill had canceled a bid.

The japanese buyer's the same guy I waved off from the original auction where he was throwing higher numbers than $1200 at the horn. For a foreign collector looking for a pristine 30's Martin, $1200 is probably a good price. Martin lacquer was notorious for going bad quickly, so examples like this one are rare, especially in Japan. I guess the buyer figured that It's not an issue of the seller not having the horn or misrepresenting it so much as his auction tactics are unethical & was willing to take the risk. Not me, unless I could visit him & look over the horn.

I thought about reporting it to Ebay & I'm sorry they didn't do something, though I would guess that kind of thing may be so common they don't bother unless somebody gets a load of complaints.

[altoman]

How is this for profiteering

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7336723428&category=10184&ssPageName=WDVW&rd=1 :shock:

[brucemacdonald]

One word springs to mind: overpriced.

Best wishes

Bruce

[Martin Williams]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7337324809&category=64455&rd=1

so... are we gettin the sax or the guitar? or both?

[R2D2]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7337324809&category=64455&rd=1

so... are we gettin the sax or the guitar? or both?

HEHEHE

What are the chances of getting the Selmer Paris Mark VI Bari for $200?? :D