Noblet alto sax

[JoePolvino]

Hello, I have an old-ish Noblet Eb alto sax that I don't know much about. I got it in very used condition around 1977. Some of the markings: STANDARD, Noblet Paris, MADE IN FRANCE, and it has serial 10xxx.

Anyone know maybe when this was made? The lacquer is in rough shape, and it really needs a good cleaning. What would be the breaking point price-wise for repair? I really like the sound of this sax!

-joe

[bfoster64]

That's a good vintage and among the best of these mysterious Noblets. It probably is a fine player. Since you like it and already own it, it is probably worth the cost of repair, which shouldn't exceed $400-500 for a full overhaul.

[JoePolvino]

That's a good vintage and among the best of these mysterious Noblets. It probably is a fine player. Since you like it and already own it, it is probably worth the cost of repair, which shouldn't exceed $400-500 for a full overhaul.

Any idea on its age? Can you tell me more about it, or maybe point me somewhere?

I'd love to have my son use this nice instrument, and would much rather pay even more than a replacement just to have him enjoy it as I did.

-joe

[bfoster64]

It's probably from the mid-50s to mid-60s, a great era for French saxophones. Unfortunately, there is very little authoritative information on these vintage Noblets. It seems like the best ones come from the 5000-11000 serial number range. They are generally not held to be on par with the Selmers/Buffets/SMLs from that era, but some would argue they're pretty close. Like Cuesnons and Dolnets, they are sort of mysterious and have their proponents as well as detractors. Do some searches on this forum and on Google for "Noblet" and you may find some spotty information about them.

I think your idea of fixing it up so your son can use it is a good one. It should have a much more beautiful tone than any new horn you could purchase for the cost of repair.

[JoePolvino]

It's probably from the mid-50s to mid-60s, a great era for French saxophones. Unfortunately, there is very little authoritative information on these vintage Noblets. It seems like the best ones come from the 5000-11000 serial number range. They are generally not held to be on par with the Selmers/Buffets/SMLs from that era, but some would argue they're pretty close. Like Cuesnons and Dolnets, they are sort of mysterious and have their proponents as well as detractors. Do some searches on this forum and on Google for "Noblet" and you may find some spotty information about them.

I think your idea of fixing it up so your son can use it is a good one. It should have a much more beautiful tone than any new horn you could purchase for the cost of repair.

Thanks for all the info. I remember playing a new-ish Vito and Selmer (maybe Bundy?) around 1981 and being turned off by the feel...it felt angular, rigid, and "binary" if that makes sense. My Noblet was soft and effortless. Maybe it was weaker spring and more break-in, but it was something I valued a lot.

You're right, the information is spotty. I'll take it in for an overhaul estimate.