Martin C-Melody sax, bare-brass finish, very rare 1920's instrument

- engraved "Horace" and "Sold by Landay Bros. New York." 

The serial number is C 8532 L.   The 'L' signifies standard, modern A=440 pitch, it plays in tune with modern instruments. This is what is known as a "stencil" model. These were instruments built by the major manufacturers ( in this instance Martin ) using the same bodies and components as their 'own named' saxes, but specially engraved for sale by large department stores and dealers, in this case Landay Brothers, a contemporary of Macy's in New York, USA in the 20's & 30's.  The beveled tone holes, bow protector and neck brace all identify this as being manufactured by Martin, in Elkhart Indiana in the 1920's.  The finish has some patina, making this a very funky looking sax.  Mother-of-pearl key touches on the finger keys.

The sax is (just) playable, it has had some pads and felts recently replaced.  If it were to be regularly used I would probably suggest replacing the rest as required.  The sax is in very good general condition, quite dent free. The only repair I can find is some soldering up near the neck joint.