1952 Conn 12M Huge Full Mechanical Overhaul
This one was indeed a huge job, and it was so worth it. This 64 year old horn had suffered decades of neglect and bad repair. It was a right wreck frankly. And the lacquer was pitted, splotchy, uneven, and looked terrible. Poor alignment and improper pad seating was compensated for with extra heavy springs making very uncomfortable to play. Well, after about two full weeks of work this horn was simply a joy to play. Midway through this job I thought it might never really feel good under the fingers, but I was wrong.
I have included pictures from mid-overhaul. I had to make a spring cradle, several key inserts, 27 solder joints, key extensions, and a full needle spring replacement.
Here is what the owner of this horn had to say about this gem:
"Carlo, thank you so much for the top notch overhaul of my '52 12M. I know it was a bit of a bear to work on because of all the abuse it has seen. The
This one was indeed a huge job, and it was so worth it. This 64 year old horn had suffered decades of neglect and bad repair. It was a right wreck frankly. And the lacquer was pitted, splotchy, uneven, and looked terrible. Poor alignment and improper pad seating was compensated for with extra heavy springs making very uncomfortable to play. Well, after about two full weeks of work this horn was simply a joy to play. Midway through this job I thought it might never really feel good under the fingers, but I was wrong.
I have included pictures from mid-overhaul. I had to make a spring cradle, several key inserts, 27 solder joints, key extensions, and a full needle spring replacement.
Here is what the owner of this horn had to say about this gem:
"Carlo, thank you so much for the top notch overhaul of my '52 12M. I know it was a bit of a bear to work on because of all the abuse it has seen. The
effort was worth it. It plays like velvet. As a sax geek I so appreciate all your attention to even the most minute details. And I'm glad you recommended we strip the lacquer. Playing a decent looking horn won't make me a better player but it sure feels nicer to just have it in my hands. Owning a great playing bari has literally been a 10 year journey for me. From the Martin being stolen/recovered to its horrible, dishonorable overhaul, and its eventual trade for the battered 12M. I am so happy with this horn now. Please understand that every little thing you did to make it better is noticed and appreciated. Hooray!"
- Jim West, tenor and baritone saxophonist in Moxie
- Jim West, tenor and baritone saxophonist in Moxie