A Century of Bach Mouthpieces as Told Through Their Engravings

This will change the way you view vintage mouthpieces.

Introduction | Are you overlooking that mark?

There is a manufacturer that started in 1918 with the production of a single mouthpiece.

That's Vincent Bach.

Even after more than 100 years, its design philosophy continues to live on as a "standard," shaping the very sound of the trumpet. It's not just a long-established company; it's fair to say that it "created the standard for sound."

However, this bag actually has one interesting point.

That's the difference in the markings.

Even with the same "Bach" name, the markings vary subtly from era to era. And these differences are the key to determining "when the piece was made."

Why is it necessary to know the markings?

While the serial number on a trumpet itself can be used to determine its age, this is not possible with a mouthpiece.

In other words, this mark is the only thing we can rely on.

"I don't really know much about vintage."

I think many people feel that way and therefore avoid it.

In reality, the manufacturing trends, tone, and playing feel can change depending on the era.
While I encourage you to use your own judgment to confirm what people in this age group are like, you can't make any comparisons without basic knowledge.

This article will begin by tracing the history behind the differences in markings, providing a clear explanation so you can understand "what era your current (or the mouthpiece you're interested in) belongs to."

First things to know: Back factories and era classifications

The following place names are essential when discussing vintage bags.
Bronx
·new york
Mount Vernon
Elkhart
These all refer to the locations where factories existed during that period.

The flow is

Bronx → Mount Vernon → Elkhart

In Japan, the Bronx period is often referred to as "New York," and the Mount Vernon period as simply "Mount Vernon," but the term "New York Back" is actually a somewhat ambiguous expression.

Since the place names Mount Vernon and the Bronx are included within the larger region of "New York State," it might be more accurate to refer to them as the "New York-Bronx period" and the "New York-Mount Vernon period."

Let's look at the differences in the markings.

Now, let's look at the actual differences in the markings. At first glance, the logos may look the same, but upon closer inspection, there are definitely differences.
That difference is precisely the difference in eras.

1920s | Early Bronx

A small sans-serif typeface,

"VINCENT BACH CORP., NEW YORK"

or

It is stamped with "V BACH CORP. NEW YORK".

The omission of "VINCENT" is thought to be due to character limitations.

Mid-1920s to mid-1940s | Mid-Bronx period

A characteristic of this period is the serif font. It's a classical typeface with scale-like decorations at the ends of the letters.

And what's noteworthy is the "O" in "CORP".

Many specimens are found to be missing this part.

This is because the mold used for engraving was damaged but continued to be used, which is not simply a defect, but an important clue to identifying the period in which it was made.

Mid-1940s to 1953 | Late Bronx

We're returning to a sans-serif font, but the engraving will be slightly larger.

The basic notation is the same as in the mid-term period.

"VINCENT BACH CORP., NEW YORK"

Changes in typefaces reflect the changing times.

1953–1964 | Mount Vernon period

The engraving is

"VINCENT BACH CORP. MT. VERNON NY"

Around 1960, the dot was omitted.

It will change to "VINCENT BACH CORP MT VERNON NY".

These are subtle differences, but they are important points for distinguishing between them.

1965–1969 | Early Elkhart Period

This period is also called "no dots,"

It will have a simple inscription that reads "VINCENT BACH CORP".

This is a characteristic of the transitional period immediately following the factory relocation.

1970s | Deep Period

The design features a deep dot after the word "CORP".

This is what is known as the "deep period."

 

1980–1993 | Near Period

The dots become shallower, and this is called the "near-period" era. It is a relatively common generation with a large supply in circulation.

1994-1996 | No-Corporate Period

For only three years, there were pieces engraved with "VINCENT BACH." While similar markings appeared in later years, those from this period have deeper engravings and distinctive numeral shapes.

1997-2003 | Large Letter

The font size increased, resulting in a specification known as "large letter."
This is a visually easy-to-understand change.

2003 onwards | Since Large Letter

Since then, although there have been minor changes, the fonts have been consolidated into the current small font.

The true value of vintage

Vintage items are not simply "old tools," but rather objects that bring the very atmosphere of their time into the present. And the markings on them quietly tell the story of the instrument's history.

I'm using an older instrument, so I want to use a mouthpiece made around the same time.
I'm looking for it because I like the sound of this era.
- My favorite player uses a vintage mouthpiece.
People have various reasons for looking for vintage items.

However, everyone saidNewIt's certain that they are seeking "something that cannot be obtained otherwise."

The next time you pick up a mouthpiece, be sure to take a look at the engraving. A whole new world of musical appreciation might open up for you.

one thing:
Our shop always has over 300 used trumpet mouthpieces for sale. If this article has piqued your interest in vintage instruments, please feel free to visit me. It's perfectly fine if you don't know anything. I'd be happy to help you find the perfect mouthpiece for you!

childThe person who wrote this article: NakamuraOkubo Gakki）

Biography:He is an expert in brass instrument repair with many clients, and as a salesperson, he has extensive connections with overseas manufacturers and brands. He is also known as one of Japan's foremost instrument case enthusiasts.He is dedicated to updating not only the instrument itself but also the mouthpiece and other components, and many players visit his shop relying on his experience and information. He is also an active trumpet player.

Qualifications and experience:
・13 years of experience as a musical instrument appraiser- Chief Wind Instrument Repair Officer- Contributing to writing and supervision for specialized wind instrument publications, etc.

▶︎Articles I have written
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The Trumpet vol.18Find the perfect model for you!Trumpet Case Collection

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