1950 Buescher Aristocrat Tenor Saxophone – Original Lacquer

$2,400.00

In stock

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The post-war Buescher Aristocrat tenors are among the most respected American saxophones ever produced, combining refined craftsmanship, elegant Art Deco styling, and one of the warmest, most sophisticated tenor sounds of the vintage era. This 1950 example is a particularly appealing player’s horn, retaining its original lacquer and presenting in well-cared-for vintage condition with honest signs of professional-working use throughout.

Known for their rich, smooth tonal character, Buescher Aristocrat tenors occupy a unique place in the vintage saxophone world. Compared to the broader and more aggressive sound of some contemporary American horns, the Aristocrat tends to offer a more refined and centered voice while still maintaining excellent warmth and projection. The tone is lush and resonant with excellent flexibility, making these horns favorites among jazz players, section musicians, and vintage enthusiasts alike.

This example retains its original lacquer, which remains in overall good shape with light scratching and honest wear consistent with a professionally played vintage instrument. The body presents very well overall, with no significant denting – only minor cosmetic bruising from normal use over the years. The horn has clearly been maintained and enjoyed rather than neglected or heavily damaged.

Mechanically, the saxophone is currently playing well and has been personalized by its previous professional owner with additional comfort padding around the octave key and thumb rest area, improving ergonomics during extended playing sessions. These kinds of thoughtful player modifications are often seen on instruments that spent years actively performing rather than sitting unused. Many of the pads are used but with lots of life left on them.

Features Include:

  • Serial #335773; manufactured in 1950
  • Original lacquer finish – Lacquer in overall fair-to-good condition with light wear and scratching
  • No significant dents or damage; minor cosmetic bruising from normal vintage use
  • Warm, refined vintage Buescher tenor tone
  • Added professional player comfort padding near octave key and thumb rest
  • Strong-playing vintage professional tenor saxophone
  • Elegant post-war Aristocrat engraving and styling

The Buescher Aristocrat remains one of the great values in vintage professional saxophones, offering exceptional build quality and tonal sophistication while still remaining comparatively undervalued relative to many contemporary American and French instruments. This is an attractive and affordable example for players seeking a warm, expressive vintage tenor with honest character and professional-level performance.

Instrument Demo

Additional information

Brand

Buescher

Condition

Fine (3/5)

Finish Color

Brass

Instrument

Tenor Saxophone

Level

Professional, Intermediate

Manufacture Decade

1950

Complimentary Getting-Acquainted Lesson

All saxophone purchases come with a complimentary 15-30 minute lesson with Michael Wilbur, a professional saxophonist, educator, and touring artist, best known as a founding member of Moon Hooch and Thundersmack.

We hope this lesson will help you get acquainted with your new horn!
Learn more about lessons with Michael and book a session.