hermes becco sax | Antique & Vintage Saxophones for Sale in Online Auctions

The world of saxophones is a vast and fascinating one, populated by iconic brands like Selmer, Yamaha, and Yanagisawa, each with its own history, reputation, and legion of loyal players. But amidst these giants, smaller, less-renowned names often lurk, offering glimpses into different eras of instrument making and sometimes, surprising performance capabilities. One such name is "Hermes," often encountered in the context of a stock mouthpiece accompanying a saxophone – the "Hermes Becco Sax."

The statement, "The stock mouthpiece that came with my Grand Tenor Sax is a Hermes. It seems to play well, but I'm looking at a couple Runyons to replace it anyways," encapsulates the typical experience many players have with Hermes. It's often a starting point, a functional component immediately considered for upgrading. But is that fair? Is there more to the Hermes story than meets the eye? Let's delve into the enigma of the Hermes Becco Sax, exploring its history, its presence in the vintage saxophone market, and its potential value to players today.

Have you heard of HERMES????? The Elusive Nature of Hermes

The first question that often arises when encountering a Hermes saxophone or mouthpiece is: "Have you heard of HERMES?????". The answer, for many seasoned saxophone players, is a hesitant "maybe." Hermes isn't a brand that readily springs to mind when discussing saxophone manufacturers. This relative obscurity stems from several factors:

* Limited Production and Distribution: Hermes was likely never a major player in the saxophone market. Production numbers were likely smaller compared to established brands, and distribution networks were probably less extensive. This naturally leads to fewer instruments and mouthpieces circulating in the market, making them less familiar to players.

* OEM Production: It's highly probable that Hermes primarily operated as an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), producing saxophones and, more commonly, mouthpieces for other brands or retailers. This means their name might appear discreetly on the instrument or mouthpiece, while the overall branding emphasized the reseller's identity. This practice further contributes to the brand's anonymity.

* Lack of Extensive Marketing: Unlike larger companies with significant advertising budgets, Hermes likely lacked the resources to engage in widespread marketing campaigns. This lack of visibility further cemented its position as a niche brand.

Hermes Sax and Hermes Saxophone: Unearthing the Instruments

While Hermes is more commonly associated with mouthpieces, complete Hermes saxophones do exist, though they are significantly rarer. These instruments often appear in the used and vintage markets, hinting at a production period that likely spanned several decades, possibly from the mid-20th century onwards.

Identifying a Hermes saxophone can be tricky, especially if the branding is subtle or has worn away over time. Key characteristics to look for include:

* Engraving: Check the bell, body, and neck for any engravings that clearly state "Hermes." The font and style of the engraving can sometimes provide clues about the instrument's age and origin.

* Serial Number: The serial number can be a valuable tool for researching the instrument's history. However, information about Hermes serial number ranges is scarce, making it difficult to definitively date a saxophone based solely on its serial number.

* Keywork and Design: Examine the keywork, particularly the pinky keys and the overall layout. Compare these features to other vintage saxophones from the same era. This can help narrow down the instrument's potential origin and identify any unique design elements associated with Hermes.

* Build Quality: Assess the overall build quality of the saxophone. Look for signs of careful craftsmanship, such as precise soldering, smooth key action, and durable materials. While Hermes may not have reached the level of refinement seen in top-tier brands, a well-made Hermes saxophone can still be a reliable and enjoyable instrument to play.

Antique & Vintage Saxophones for Sale in Online Auctions: A Treasure Hunthermes becco sax

Online auctions and marketplaces are often the best place to find antique and vintage saxophones, including those bearing the Hermes name. Sites like eBay, Reverb, and specialized vintage instrument dealers can be valuable resources for unearthing these hidden gems.

When searching for a Hermes saxophone in online auctions, keep the following tips in mind:

* Use Specific Keywords: Use keywords like "Hermes saxophone," "vintage Hermes sax," "Hermes tenor sax," and "Hermes alto sax" to narrow down your search results.

* Carefully Examine Photos: Scrutinize the photos provided by the seller. Look for clear images of the engraving, keywork, and overall condition of the instrument. Pay attention to any signs of damage, wear, or repairs.

* Read the Description Thoroughly: Read the seller's description carefully, paying attention to details about the instrument's history, condition, and any known issues.

* Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions about the saxophone. Inquire about its playability, any repairs that have been made, and its overall condition.

* Check Seller Feedback: Before placing a bid or making a purchase, check the seller's feedback rating. Look for sellers with a positive reputation and a history of selling musical instruments.

* Consider the Return Policy: Ensure that the seller has a reasonable return policy in case the saxophone is not as described or has hidden issues.