This Olds Small Bore Jazz Tenor Trombone, made in the 1920s in Los Angeles, is a gorgeous historical instrument. With serial number 3580, it’s an early Olds model that has stood the test of time. The 7" gold brass bell and brass handslide with nickel trim and oversleeves contribute to its unique look and sound. The T.I.S. (Tuning in Slide) mechanism is incorporated into the handslide, adding to its authenticity and design.
The slide tubes are straight and in perfect condition, with no defects or issues. While it’s unlikely that this is the original finish on the instrument, the restoration work done on it is so expertly done that it’s almost indistinguishable from the original factory work. The lacquer is beautiful, with perfect color and no surface scratches or swirl marks. All the engraving remains crisp, and the stamped serial numbers and markings show no signs of overbuffing, further indicating the high level of craftsmanship that went into the restoration.
This trombone is a fantastic example of an Olds Jazz Trombone, and despite being over 100 years old, it plays exactly as it was designed to. While it’s small compared to modern trombones, this was typical of the era and gives the instrument a unique, bright sound. It would be a wonderful piece for a collector or anyone interested in playing a true piece of American brass instrument history.
Included with this trombone is the original case, which features a corduroy liner and is in excellent condition.
This Olds Jazz Trombone 1920’s has been sold and is now shown here as a reference for anyone researching vintage Olds trombones.
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Can a 100-year-old trombone still be playable today?
Yes, this Olds Jazz Trombone, made in the 1920s, is fully playable and performs exactly as it was intended. With the proper care and restoration, vintage trombones like this one can continue to produce excellent sound and provide a unique playing experience, showcasing the craftsmanship of their time.
What is T.I.S. and how does it work on the Olds trombone?
T.I.S. stands for Tuning in Slide, a feature incorporated into the handslide of this trombone. It allows the player to adjust the tuning by altering the position of the tuning mechanism inside the slide, offering greater flexibility for pitch adjustments during performance. This design was a hallmark of Olds instruments from that era, contributing to their exceptional playability.
