📸 Historical Listing Overview
This Bach Stradivarius Model 12 tenor trombone, dating from approximately 1965, represents an early example from the Elkhart Corporation era, built shortly after the transition from the famous Mt. Vernon Bach workshop.
Many instruments from this period contain Mt. Vernon-era components and construction techniques, making them especially interesting to players and collectors who appreciate the evolution of Bach’s small-bore trombone designs.
The Model 12 has long been one of the most recognizable Bach small-bore jazz trombones. With its .500 bore slide and 7.5″ yellow brass bell, the instrument delivers a focused core combined with the warm overtone color often associated with vintage Bach horns.
Examples from the mid-1960s are particularly sought after by players who prefer the balance of classic Bach craftsmanship and the slightly lighter feel typical of this era.
This instrument passed through The Brass Exchange and is now preserved as a historical reference listing within our Archive of Sold instruments.
✦ Player Perspective
The Bach 12 occupies a unique space among small-bore jazz trombones.
While many small-bore horns emphasize brightness and projection, the Model 12 often provides a slightly more centered tonal core with rich Bach overtones, allowing players to achieve both clarity and warmth.
For that reason, the instrument has been widely used for:
• jazz combo playing
• lead trombone work in big bands
• studio and commercial recording
• solo performance
Players often describe well-preserved examples like this one as having a silky response and velvety overtone character, especially when paired with the classic Bach .500 bore slide design.
🔧 Condition Summary (At Time of Sale)
This example remained in excellent vintage condition when offered.
Bell Section
• 7.5″ yellow brass bell
• Original lacquer intact
• No history of damage or repair
Handslide
• Standard weight .500 bore slide
• Excellent alignment and smooth action
• No plating loss on inner tubes
The instrument was scheduled to receive a fresh chemical bath and professional shop service prior to delivery, ensuring reliable performance for the next owner.
📦 Case
The trombone included its original Bach case, which remained in excellent overall condition.
🎺 Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What is special about Bach 12 trombones from the mid-1960s?
Instruments from this period often reflect the transition between the Mt. Vernon workshop and Elkhart Corporation production, sometimes incorporating design elements from both eras.
Is the Bach 12 primarily a jazz trombone?
Yes. The Model 12 is widely used for jazz, commercial, studio, and lead trombone playing thanks to its responsive .500 bore design.
How does the Bach 12 compare to other small-bore trombones?
The Model 12 often offers a slightly warmer and more centered tonal core compared with many small-bore jazz instruments, while still retaining quick articulation and projection.
📸 Photography From Our Early Archive
The images on this page were taken during the early years of The Brass Exchange as we began documenting vintage brass instruments for our online archive.
While our photography workflow has evolved significantly over time, these photos remain part of the historical record of instruments that passed through the shop.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This trombone has been sold and now appears here as part of The Brass Exchange Archive of Sold instruments.
Archive listings are preserved as a research resource for players studying vintage brass instruments, production eras, and historical configurations.
📌 Explore Similar Bach Instruments
Interested in finding a similar Bach small-bore trombone?
👉 Browse our current trombone inventory 🔎
https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
📚 You may also explore additional Bach instruments in our Archive of Sold listings for reference and research.
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Contact us for a valuation and explore your options ✍️
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