1929 Martin “Typewriter” Alto Like new
1929 Martin Handcraft Master “Typewriter” Alto Saxophone – 99% Original Factory Silver Plate, Fresh Professional Overhaul with MusicMedic Neo Pads
Executive Summary
Up for sale is an absolute museum-grade specimen of saxophone history: a 1929 Martin Handcraft Master “Typewriter” Alto Saxophone (Serial #93139), boasting an extraordinary 99% original factory silver-plated finish and a vibrant, untouched original 24k gold-washed inner bell.
Unlike the vast majority of Typewriters on the market—which are either worn-out project horns or poorly buffed re-plates—this instrument represents an elite tier of survival. To match its immaculate cosmetic state, the horn has just received a complete, top-tier professional overhaul featuring premium MusicMedic Neo Pads, making it fully playable and mechanically flawless.
Condition & Cosmetic Highlights
• 99% Original Factory Silver Plate: The finish is entirely original. It features the correct, beautiful contrast between Martin’s signature factory satin/matte silver body tube and the brilliantly mirror-burnished keys, key guards, and engraving details.
• Crisp, Sharp Art Deco Engraving: Because this horn has never suffered from aggressive aftermarket buffing wheels, the engraving cuts remain incredibly sharp and raised to the touch.
• Pristine 24k Gold Bell Wash: The delicate original gold wash inside the bell is fully intact, rich in color, and completely free of chemical stripping or polishing damage.
• Flawless Mechanical Integrity: All original mother-of-pearl “typewriter key” touches are completely intact, vibrant, and crack-free. The body tube, bow, and bell are exceptionally straight with no evidence of past major trauma or pulled posts.
The Overhaul & Mechanical Excellence
The Martin Typewriter is famously difficult to pad and regulate due to its unique, non-traditional key mechanism. To unlock its full potential, this horn was subjected to a meticulous, no-expense-spared professional overhaul:
• MusicMedic Neo Pads: Outfitted with premium, state-of-the-art Neo Pads. These self-leveling pads solve the inherent ergonomic stiffness of the Typewriter design by providing a razor-sharp, airtight seal with minimal finger pressure.
• Action & Regulation: Swedged, fit, and oiled to perfection. The action is remarkably crisp, fluid, and quiet, defying the clunky reputation typical of unrestored Typewriters. It plays effortlessly from top to bottom with a warm, fat, and resonant 1920s Martin core sound.
• Ready to Play/Display: Zero leak adjustments or setup work required. This instrument is ready for immediate studio use, concert performance, or high-end museum display.
Specifications
• Maker: The Martin Band Instrument Company (Elkhart, Ind.)
• Model: Handcraft Master / “Typewriter”
• Serial Number: 93139 (Early 1929 Production Run)
• Finish: Factory Satin Silver Plate with Bright Burnished Keys & 24k Gold- Washed Bell
• Pads: Brand New MusicMedic Neo Pads
• Accessories: Includes vintage wood-shell case.
Pricing, Shipping, & Terms
• Price: $2,085.00
• Shipping: $45.00 via UPS Ground.
• Handling: Professionally packed, fully insured, and shipped securely. The case will be heavily padded inside a heavy-duty shipping box with the saxophone key work carefully blocked to guarantee it arrives in perfect regulation.
• Return Policy: Sold as-described. Returns accepted within 7 days if the instrument does not match the photos or description provided. Buyer pays return shipping unless otherwise agreed.
Don’t miss the chance to own what is arguably one of the cleanest, best-playing Martin Typewriter saxophones left in existence. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or to request specific additional photographs.