Selmer Manhatten Tenor

Description

• Beveled Tone Holes: This is the ultimate “smoking gun” for identification. Martin was the only manufacturer that used thick, soldered-on, beveled (tapered) tone holes.
• The Body Tube: The saxophone utilizes the heavy-gauge brass body tube blueprint of the Martin Handcraft series.
• Keywork Layout: As a 1930s stencil, it typically uses slightly older or simplified Martin key configurations to keep production costs down. It lacks the modern ergonomics of later Selmer Paris horns (like the Balanced Action or Mark VI).
• Engraving: The bell is stamped with “Selmer Manhattan” or features Manhattan-themed branding rather than the traditional Martin crest.

• Big and Fat Low End: Martin horns are legendary for massive, broad, and velvety low registers (\(B\flat\) and B).
• Dark and Resonant Core: It yields a spread, warm, and dark tone. When pushed with a small-chamber mouthpiece, it can easily take on a gritty, piercing R&B or Rock & Roll character.

• Affordable Entry to Vintage Sound: Because it bears a stencil name, it does not command the high price tags of a true “The Martin Tenor” or a Selmer Paris horn. It typically sells for under $1,000in un-restored condition, $1200 to $2000 restored and working.
• Repair Warning: The soldered, beveled tone holes can occasionally develop leaks if the original solder deteriorates. Repairing them requires a specialized technician experienced in vintage saxophones, which can make overhauls costly

  Condition
  We rate each horn’s condition. Any defects are noted here. Each criteria is on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being poor condition and 10 being perfect.

  • Body (dents, deep scratches, etc.) – 8– Dimple size dents throughout
  • Finish (lacquer, silver plate, paint, etc.) – 8 – Lacquer wear
  • Previous repairs (soldered posts, dent work, etc.) – 9– a couple of key guards may have been re-soldered.
  • Accessories (case, mouthpiece, etc.) – 8 – case is decent
  • Playability (leaks, sticky keys, etc.) – 10 – Fresh overhaul, plays like new