Bates Sax Chain

[tenor71363]

I recently purchased an old Mark VI alto. It came with this strap. It's an intereseting design. Anybody recall when they came out?

[BarrySachs]

I used to see those all over the place back in the 70s and early 80s. They were old then so I can only assume they were made from the 30s-60s. I guess that's a big window, sorry if that doesn't narrow it down enough.

[tenor71363]

This thing is in great shape. Hardly any wear on the strap. It came with a '58 VI alto. the design is cool, but I can see how it could get tangled if it is not treated properly. Luckily, the horn is just as nice. Gotta love the 5 digit VI's.

[saxjd]

I think they were around through the early 70's. It was the Cadillac in the 60's.

[seymour]

I have had a Bates Sax Chain for years and still use it regularly. They were popular when we played rock and roll bands regularly in the early 60s. Had to replace the plastic neck strap a year ago when it finally got brittle and failed. Used 1" nylon webbing, drilled out the rivets and installed new rivets. Works great!! I highly recommend them.

Jim Seymour