Jean Louis Buffet was already making musical instruments as early as the 1840's. In 1871,
Leon Crampon became a partner. If you come across an "F" preceding the serial
number of an R13, this indicates that the instrument has been built to an A442 - A444 and
is intended for use by European ensembles. The R13 was designed by Robert Carree, the head
acoustician for Buffet (c. 1950). This may have been the first intentional use of the
so-called "poly-cylindrical" bore design of the Buffet clarinet. It became the
prototype for all future Buffet clarinet designs from that point onward. As a result, it
may be safely assumed that anything from #61,000 was manufacturered with this design in
mind. Many of the documents which contained accurate information regarding serial numbers
have been lost and as a result, there is a gap from 1946 - 1957. Buffet states, however,
that approximately 3000 units per year were manufactured during this period.
If you note any discrepancies, or have additional information concerning this company, we would appreciate it VERY much if you
would pass it on to The Music Trader. Thank you!
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