Fine double bass ex Roy Babbington made by Albert Volkmann ...

Estimate

£10,000 - £15,000

 Fine double bass ex Roy Babbington made by Albert Volkmann of Schönbach circa 1910 and bearing the maker's trademark monogram stamped on the button on the back; also bearing the retail label of Karl Hammerschmidt & Sohne, Watzkenreuth and various other repair labels to the inner back, the peg box fitted with four separate brass machine heads; also fitted with a Stefan Krattenmacher bridge, (the original bridge carved with Albert Volkmann's monogram is also retained), the two piece swell back of narrow curl with similar wood to the sides and head, the table of a narrow/medium grain and the varnish of a plum red colour on a golden ground, with a bespoke Stephenson hard flight case covered overall with worldwide destination labels 

** This double bass has been owned by professional Musician Roy Babbington since 1967 having previously being owned by Colin O'Brien deceased of Stockton who purchased it in Germany circa 1960. No history is known prior to 1960. Roy has been a professional musician since 1958 and was voted best British bassist in the Melody Maker jazz poll in 1974. More biographical
details about the career of Roy can be found on the internet including images of him with the instrument.

**A well kept secret about this bass is that it was played by Roy and heard on the famous Hamlet cigar advert jingle. This fact, and further provenance about the bass, has been written up in an article by Roy and can be seen in one of the images posted on the internet websites.

More Information

This instrument is in fine condition for its age and regular use, also in good and immediate playing order. It has a fine dark broad tone and has ease of play whilst settling well with the player, there are several blemishes to the front including a crack just outside the sound post but well repaired. Various blemishes to the bottom bouts but in sound condition. Generally a high quality professional instrument. Length of back including button 43.25", width of upper bouts 20 3/8", width of lower bouts 26 3/8", stop length 23 1/2" and vibrating string length 42 1/4".