Only years later, during preparations to list the clarinet on Silverstein Exchange, Ron made a stunning discovery: the instrument was actually manufactured in 1949. How Buffet had preserved this bass clarinet, in pristine unused condition for nearly seven decades, remains a mystery even to this day.

Since its acquisition, Ron has played the clarinet only a few times, always treating it with exceptional care. Yet what makes this instrument truly priceless is not just its rarity or tonal quality—it is the deeply personal story it carries.

This bass clarinet holds a cherished place in Ron’s heart as a living memory of a close friendship. A revered clarinetist in New York City—Ron’s late friend and the principal clarinet of the Metropolitan Opera—once borrowed the instrument for rehearsals and performances. During that time, he grew deeply attached to it and asked if he could purchase it from Ron.

Ron, however, only had this one bass clarinet and, though tempted, couldn't part with it. He offered his friend unlimited access to borrow it whenever needed. Out of respect—and perhaps to protect himself from falling deeper in love with the instrument—his friend chose not to use it again. That decision, and the bond they shared, left a lasting impression on Ron.

To this day, Ron reflects on that moment with warmth and a slight tinge of longing—wishing perhaps he had passed the instrument on. But what remains is a beautiful, enduring connection to a friend he deeply admired. The clarinet became a quiet monument to their friendship.

Out of deep respect for his friend and his family, Ron has requested that his name not be disclosed.

This clarinet was more than a professional tool. It was a bridge between two great musicians, a vessel of shared artistry, and now, a rare collector’s item imbued with profound emotional legacy.

More details

Serial No. 37967

This rare Buffet Crampon bass clarinet was handcrafted in Paris in 1949, during the pre-model-number era before Buffet introduced the 1191/1193 designations. It is built to play down to low E♭, with the classic French bell and neck design of the period.

• Original Buffet Crampon oval stamp (Paris, Made in France)

• Silver-plated keywork with traditional 1940s guards and fittings

• Grenadilla wood body with rich resonance and authentic vintage character

• Peg and bell profile consistent with post-war French production

• A genuine piece of Buffet history—well before the “Prestige” era

This clarinet offers the warm, round sonority that made Buffet basses of the 1940s highly sought after by both jazz and classical artists. Collectors will appreciate its historical significance, while performers will value its responsive action and uniquely colorful tone.

**Certificate of Ownership signed by The Artist will be provided.**

It has an excellent balance of core resistance and freedom to blow as well as phenomenal intonation and sound. I originally intended this to be my main backup instrument but found myself rarely using it in performance. The instrument only used in 3 performances with various symphony in the region, and I have minimally used it in practice sessions only in a handful of occasions.

I feel the clarinet is justified to have more active use by someone who would play it as a primary instrument. Having tried dozens of Buffet Legend and Tosca clarinets for both myself and my students, I am confident that this is an exceptional instrument that is not easily found and should be actively played."

Prof. Wonkak Kim

**Certificate of Ownership signed by The Artist will be provided.**

Their sound is rich and colourful, their technical mechanism effortless and their evenness of tone across all registers is simply unreal. I have played countless successful concerts, made world tours and recorded two albums with them. These instruments have never once let me down - their quality of craftsmanship and engineering is simply impeccable.

The body of my clarinets is made of Cocobolo wood which gives a warm and resonant tone and blends incredibly in any ensemble or orchestra setting, and at the same time gives a uniquely characterful and colourful tone as soloist. The keys are gold-plated with a patina of having been played with love for nine years.

I hope that the next owner will appreciate, love and care for them as well as I did! I am selling the set in its original case with four different length barrels, also in Cocobolo wood

-Maria du Toit

**Certificate of Ownership signed by The Artist will be provided.**

**Certificate of Ownership signed by The Artist will be provided.**

-Simone Nicoletta

**Certificate of Ownership signed by The Artist will be provided.**

See a concert video with this clarinet at https://youtu.be/caIutfp4kjw?si=ZcWS6hSFgemRsJqB