1937 King Zephyr Special, s/n 209727. Here’s a rare and early example of the King Zephyr Special tenor saxophone, falling right at the start of production for this model. This horn has engraved bell keys, mother-of-pearl side and palm keys, and a sterling double-socket neck with a matching serial number. 

The sax has a tone that’s big, colorful, and textured—somewhere between the warmth of a Conn and the directness of a Selmer, but unmistakably King. It’s a horn that projects well and offers tons of flexibility in tone and response. This one plays with great resonance and a dark core, and it responds evenly across the range.

The horn was overhauled by PM Woodwind approximately 8 years ago. The pads are still in excellent condition and are sealing well. It is affixed with "Beasonators", an oversized domed rivetless metal resonator that were made by Ken Beason. 

Original Zephyr Specials from this era don't come up often—especially tenors in great playing shape. I'm guessing that the lacquer isn't original, but it's hard to tell with 100% certainty. The engraving is lighter than I'd expect, but I'd guess it would fool a lot of trained eyes.

The sax comes in its original case. It ships from DC Sax with the same attention and care we give to all of our vintage horns.