Olds Register photo guide – Los Angeles
Question 3: Model
Olds generally made both a cornet and trumpet with the same model name. The model name is engraved somewhere on the bell of the instrument, along with F.E. Olds & Son Los Angeles Calif. In the event that the engraving has been worn down or is no longer legible, this photo guide will help you identify the model.
These are listed in order of most common to least common, so you will likely be able to locate your model within the first few listed.
Ambassador Model
(“Ambassador” is engraved on the bell )
Special model
(different styles of engraving, but “Special” will be engraved on the bell)
Super model
(a nickel-silver or brass ring around the bell with script engraving):
Recording model
has several features unique from other Olds models, such as a Re-O-loy (red brass) bell and offset middle valve, but all Recording models have “Olds Recording” engraved on the bell.
Studio model
Has a brass bell tube with a nickel-silver flare with STUDIO MODEL engraved on the brass part of the bell.
Standard model
“The Olds” model became the Standard in the mid 1930’s
Super Recording model
Has the same nickel-silver or brass ring around the bell as the Super model, but also has RECORDING engraved on the bell or on the ring around the bell. There are three different styles of engraving.
Mendez model
Has Mendez engraved on the bell and is also the only model with both 1st and 3rd valve slide spring loaded triggers. Also, the only Los Angeles model with the serial number on the left side of the valve casing.
“The Olds”
(the original model dating from 1929) The very early models did not have the name of the model, but had hand engraving on the bell flare.
French model
“FRENCH MODEL” is engraved below “THE OLDS”
Military model
May or may not have a hammered bell, but will have “Military Model” engraved on the bell.
Radio model
(very rare)
Aida Model
Herald trumpet – may have been introduced at the end of the Los Angeles era.
Symphony model
very rare
Other
some US Military issue instruments did not have model numbers. Please include comments
