Hey everyone! I just came across an Armstrong model 55 in excellent condition for 50 bucks. Can anyone give me any advice on how well these certain models were made, and how much they usually go for? I would really appreciate any input you can offer.

Thanks in advance,

Michael

I believe that the Armstrong Model 55 was also known as the Heritage II and was reputed to be a very nice flute for it's time. It's a solid silver flute with open holes, B foot, and pointed keys. Does that describe the flute? If so, it's either a steal for you (or for the seller). A solid silver flute is worth more than $50 even for it's scrap value. I've seen other Model 55 flutes in good condition sell between $500-$800.

So, I'd proceed with caution. I see several possibilities:
- It's a Model 55 but the seller doesn't know what it's worth
- It's a Model 55 but the seller really needs cash fast
- It's not a Model 55
- It's stolen
- It's a scam

<Added>

Forgot to mention that if it's solid silver, it should be stamped with the word "Silver" on each section (headjoint, body, foot)

Also, any model Armstrong flute, even plated models, are worth $50 or more if it is truly in good playing condition and undamaged.

The ad doesn't say whether or not it is marked as a solid silver flute. Also, it says that it has a C foot and the pictures shown shows a flute that does NOT have open holes. I will have to inquire further to the seller to get some more accurate specifications. Thank you very much for your quick response! I appreciate it!

Michael

Don't even bother with and Armstrong, they are crap. If you are going to play the flute take it seriously and invest in a good flute. Stop wasting your time.

Binx wrote:

Don't even bother with and Armstrong, they are crap. If you are going to play the flute take it seriously and invest in a good flute. Stop wasting your time.

Please don't make such general statements - they are not accurate. In every brand there are some really good examples and some really poor examples. That's why it's important to test play a flute before buying it.

Some of the newest Armstrongs are not always of the same quality level as the older ones. I play a Muramatsu AD as my primary flute, but my backup flute is an Armstrong Model 80 from around 1960. It has a sterling head and body and is quite a good flute. It's not comparable to a pro quality handmade flute, but it is nonetheless an excellent flute for an intermediate player or as in my case, a backup instrument. I performed with it for many years before getting my Muramatsu. I'm a semi-pro player, teacher, and flute repair technician. My Armstrong certainly plays as well as a Yamaha flute in the 400 series.

So, if you state that you had a bad experience with an Armstrong, that might be accurate for you, but to unequivocally state that all Armstrong flutes are "crap" is just plain wrong. I've seen many other brands including Powell, Miyazawa, Pearl, Haynes, and other pro-level flutes that played horribly because they were not properly setup and maintained, but I don't badmouth them because of it.

I know, how ignorant of me! Can you believe anyone would say such a thing?. I can say that there are worse brands out there then Armstrong.