The Versailles

Martin Freres Versailles is an Intermediate Bb Clarinet manufactured during the same time period as the LaMonte Model 2 Student clarinet. The Versailles Bb clarinet uses the same overall design as the Martin Freres LaMonte Model 2 Bb clarinet. The notable differences between the two clarinet models are as follows:

1. The Versailles uses a much higher grade of Grenadilla wood (containing no wormholes or sapwood) allowing for a natural Grenadilla wood finish
2. The Versailles was also offered in Rosewood
3. The Versailles keys are stronger and more stable than that used on the LaMonte M2 student clarinet
4. The posts are re-enforced with set screws to prevent mis-alignment
5. The springs are professional quality steel

The Versailles was manufactured in Paris by Martin Freres throughout the 1950s, and was distributed by Buegeleisen and Jacobson of New York and Toronto. The clarinet has a focused tone with good fluid action and excellent intonation. The key-work is excellent as the posts are reinforced. This clarinet is best suited for advanced students and ensemble musicians.

The estimated value of the Versailles can be described as follows:

Condition Description

• Used Parts Only to Poor Condition – Not playable; Needs Major Work
• Used Fair to Good Playable Condition – Playable with minor issues, may have repaired cracks, may have metal loss, fair pads, fair cork, fair springs.
• Used Very Good Playable Condition – Playable with no issues, may have repaired cracks, may have minor metal loss, good pads, good cork, good springs.
• Used Excellent Playable Condition – No visible scratches, No cracks or pins, No Metal Loss, new pads, new cork, good springs

Versailles Clarinet Value

The estimated Retail Value of the ‘Versailles Martin Freres Paris’ clarinet can be described as:

• Used Parts Only to Poor Condition $75US – $149US
• Used Fair to Good Playable Condition $150US – $349US
• Used Very Good Playable Condition $350US – $498US
• Used Excellent Playable Condition $499US – $700US