Martin Committee I
$685.00
This 1935 Martin Committee alto saxophone is a masterclass in vintage craftsmanship, handmade in Elkhart, Indiana. Famous for its signature rich, warm resonance and iconic eagle-and-skyline engraving, this horn has been professionally serviced and plays with the response of a brand-new instrument.
While it was re-lacquered in the past, the finish remains in stunning condition. The body is remarkably clean, showing no signs of dents or previous repairs. This is a battle-tested classic that is ready for many more years of performance.
Included with purchase:
- Martin Committee Saxophone
- Mouthpiece & Ligature
- Hard-shell Case
Hand-built in 1935 during the golden era of Indiana instrument manufacturing, this “Committee” model has undergone a full professional service. Mechanically, it performs like a modern horn while maintaining the dark, soulful tonal characteristics that collectors and jazz players seek. The absence of past structural repairs or dents ensures the acoustic integrity remains uncompromised.
Aesthetic Condition:
Lacquer is shinny and smooth, It looks very good. The engraving is faint but visible. Looks amazing for a sax that is 90 plus years old!
1 in stock
Description
The Martin Committee I alto saxophone, often referred to as the “Searchlight” or “Skyline” model, is a highly sought-after vintage instrument manufactured by the Martin Band Instrument Company in Elkhart, Indiana. Introduced in the mid-1930s (typically serial numbers 114,xxx to 125,xxx), it was Martin’s top-of-the-line professional model at the time.
Key Features & Design
- “Searchlight” Engraving: The model is famous for its intricate Art Deco bell engraving depicting searchlights, a city skyline, or sometimes an eagle and airplane.
- Tapered Beveled Tone Holes: A signature Martin feature where the tone holes are beveled and soldered rather than drawn.
- Adjustable Ergonomics: Features an adjustable right-hand thumb hook and a heart-shaped left-hand thumb rest to improve player comfort.
- Tone Profile: Known for a smooth, fluid, and “singing” quality with a slight edge. It provides a big, warm, and projecting vintage sound often associated with West Coast jazz.
Models and Identification
The “Committee” name spans several iterations of Martin’s professional line:
- Committee I (1935–1938): The original “Searchlight” model.
- Committee II (1938–1945): Known for the “Lion and Crown” engraving and improved keywork quality.
- Committee III (1945–1971): Often branded simply as “The Martin Alto,” this model became Martin’s most popular and long-lived professional saxophone.
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.) – 10
- Finish (lacquer, silver plate, paint, etc.) – 9 has been re-lacquered
- Previous repairs (soldered posts, dent work, etc.) – 10 none noted
- Accessories (case, mouthpiece, etc.) – 7 case is rough.
- Playability (leaks, sticky keys, etc.) – 10
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