Expert: Kenton Scott - 3/20/2009

Question
Hi,

I have a cornet by F. Jaubert that I'd like to know more about, but can't find more info.  I'd really appreciate any help.  Mine ONLY has engraved on the bell:   "-F.-", next line is "Jaubert et Cie" and last line is "Paris".  It's all engraved inside a surrounding border design.  Everything I find online have the added "Lyon & Healey, Chicago" on the bell.  Mine, however, does NOT have that added.  Does that make mine older, before Lyon & Healey got involved?

Also...what is the "F." on the first line for?  I ask because 1)  the letter F is in twice as large font than the second line (Jaubert & Cie), and 2) it would be weird to have his first name initial taking up line one.  

This is instrument is NOT the same height as the ones that have "Lyons & Healey" engraved on them online.  THIS instrument is more squished, the others are more spread out in height.

The valves buttons are mother-of-pearl.  On the middle of valve #1 is engraved "97" and on valve #3 is engraved "99".  Made for a player with really big hands.  

I know F. Jauber isn't a manufacturer, it's only a brand name.

I've checked in ebay already under "Completed Items" but there's nothing there -- nor anywhere else online.  I have checked and rechecked.  I am trying to get a price value on this before selling this, but can't seem to get one anywhere.  It is worth getting one?  Do you appraise?

Again, I would really really appreciate any info you could provide on this.  And I appreciate the time you take to email me back.  

Sincerely,

Monique D.

Answer
Monique,

Jaubert was a Lyon and Healy tradename, and some of L&H's other brands would say various things; some wouldn't make any mention of L&H, some would be like a by-line, some said distributed by L&H and some referred to L&H as agents.  It was all marketing.  

For whatever reason, Jaubert's got the reputation for being tough,well made instruments.

As for the instrument itself, I wonder if it might be an Eb cornet rather than the standard Bb cornet.  That might explain why it has a different shape.

No, I don't do evaluations on this site.