Posted by We have a NUMBER! 80J on November 02, 2001 at 00:34:17:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Model Number? posted by Lesley on November 01, 2001 at 22:23:48:
OK, based on what you've told me, the horn is almost certainly an 80J, especially with the "80" on the bell ring.
The 80J was a medium (for Conn) bore sized tuba, the little brother of the huge 36J De Luxe Recording Bass which had 4 front action valves and a 26" bell.
The only discrepency from the 80J is your bell size, the literature lists the 80J as having a 23" bell. In fairness, though, a bell could be a little bigger or smaller due to age, squashing, or variations in manufacturing, etc.
From a 1931 brochure:
"With a Smaller Bore - 80J"
Similar to 36-J except it is one size smaller in bore, has a 23-inch bell, and has only 3 valves. $310 in satin silver, gold burnshsed inside bell 80 -J-2
Other finishes
Polished brass, 80-J-4, $260; satin silver, polished inside bell, 80-J-3, $290; satin gold, points burnished, 80-J-0, $425; burnished gold, 80-J-00, $500."
Two Piece cases $90
Best regards,
Rob P-M