Saxophones Couturier-Lyon&Healy-Holton

[turf3]

So, in the C melody discussion, and elsewhere, was discussion of the Couturier-Lyon & Healy - Holton path and the related products. I alluded at the time to my Couturier-design Holton Collegiate soprano, so here it is. I have many photos so will probably have to break this into several posts.

Overall view

Here is the distinctive LH table, with integrated C# and G#.

 

[turf3]

Here is the badge. Reads (very difficult to see in the photo) "COLLEGIATE" then underneath "Made By Frank Holton & Co. Elkhorn Wis"

The keywork is delicate and rather frail. Note for example the rather flimsy bridge below. Also the very small C/Eb keys, the very small side keys.

 

[turf3]

Distinctive shape of octave key touch. Linked LH palm keys - D# key lifts D key, F key lifts D# key and through it the D key, Note also the long slender shape of the palm keytouches, at a time when most US saxophones had round bulbous ones. The dreaded thumb ring is shown. The piece of cork was my attempt to make it bearable to hold and play. SN is shown (again, hard to read because the horn's been buffed to within an inch of its life).

I believe the SN is 201833.

The case I reckon is a replacement, but if it's an original Couturier/L&H, that'd be cool. I know it's not a Holton case. Also note the pivot screw. Very crudely made. The basic design is same/similar to Holton pivot screws. I have a Holton sax at home but have not done a direct comparison of the screws. Did Couturier use the same design? Or when Holton took them over did they move to using Holton small hardware? That would certainly be a cost savings, I'd think.

I will also point out that all the rods and hinge tubes are very much smaller in diameter than my Buescher or genuine Holton sopranos. The whole thing gives a feeling of general flimsiness.

The tone is rather nice, intonation is pretty good. The horn's in pretty rough condition and I haven't played it in probably 10 years, so it may not be very playable by now.

 

[PigSquealer]

Never seen anything quite like this one. Funky LH palm key setup. I like it.
The bevels are different than L&H made. So maybe Holton made the change ? Every Couturier/ Lyon & Healy I’ve seen bevels looking like this below.

The pivot pin screw you pictured is of Holton style but most likely DIY made. The threaded portion is 100% equal to the post size. The pin area @ 1/4” long . They are 1/2”, 2-56 fillister head. Couturier / L&H used points.

If the case interior is gold it’s post war. Red or baby blue pre war. I’m thinking post war 1950’s from the latches and handle.

Your 201833 may be the oldest Collegiate on record. The number is consistent with others made at the LaPorte factory.

Holton used different numbering at the time.