OK, here is the situation: I`m trumpet instructor for a brass band that got trumpet + euphonium ( I get to teach euphonium too) We are looking foward to buy a used trombone. IT is a Old Ambassador.. can`t tell the serial number ( i got to call th shoP) it is adounrd 210$ and could be négociated.. Laquer is probably off on some large part, but the bell looks ok and the slide...slides!

Any comment, oppinion,. suggestion about this? is it too much to pay?

Since the original Olds company went out of business somewhere around 1968 we know the horn is fairly old.

Fortunately, the Olds Ambassador was a real war horse. A bit stuffy, but if taken care of, they will last a long time.

Check the inner slide tubes for plating wear and the outter slide tubes for red rot, small red circles in the brass. Red rot or de-zinkification, is a sign that the metal is about done. We see it more often on other brands than on the Olds.

From a private party with no warranty, you are towards the top of the price range. You would expect to pay more if you were buying it from a dealer with payment plans, warranty, cleaning, etc.

Actually, It has probably already being cleared. And I forgot to tell that there is a 1 years waranty with it. I may try to negociate a much lower pric someting agout 110$ and give the shop the marching, 2 valve melophone that hasN`t been used for at least 10 years. IT is still in great condition, but there is no evident demand for this type of horn... So I hope that it may work.. samll chances!