Regent Horns

While the earliest known Reynolds-labeled horns with rotary valves date from approximately 1943-45, a late 1930's Ohio Band Instrument Co. catalog lists Regent Single and Double Horns, likely making them the earliest horns produced at the Reynolds factory. It's not a stretch to assume that the Regent horns would bear a resemblance to the King horns that were produced under Foster Reynolds' guidance at H.N. White through 1935. The Regent models were discontinued c.1950 as Reynolds and Ohio Band operations were eventually consolidated under the Roth-Reynolds name.

The marketing language in the Ohio Band catalog (see below) is very similar to that found in H.N. White materials, especially the claims of milling accuracy to less than 1/1000" and the uniformity of the gauge of metals used. These first descriptions of the horn mechanics, especially the rotary valves, would be reprinted and reused in Reynolds catalogs and brochures through the 1970s.

1936-c.1950

Ohio Band Instrument Co. (Cleveland, Ohio)

The French Horn excels all other brass instruments in its power of expression. Being a delicate and sensitive instrument, mechanical accuracy in manufacturing is of paramount importance. The rotary valves are of the quiet floating type, rotating on exceptionally long, accurately fitted shafts and bearings, thereby preventing friction on the rotor valve. These valves are machined and fitted to limits as close as one-half of 1/1000 of an inch and are guaranteed to function freely.

The instrument is constructed of the finest special alloy materials, especially developed for French Horns. The guage of the metal is held uniform throughout and all tubing is of seamless construction. Regent French Horns, built by experts, have a perfect scale in all registers; they are easy blowing and are suitable for orchestra as well as band use. Made in both Single and Double Models. Regent French Horns invite comparison.

1930's Ohio Band Instrument Co. catalog

Model 1221

Regent Single French Horn in F with E♭ slide

Bore: TBD
Bell: TBD
Materials: brass with nickel-silver bracing and trim
Finish: polished brass with clear lacquer finish; optional brass with gold lacquer finish; optional triple silver plated, satin finish with bright silver bell or gold bell

Model 1222

Regent Double French Horn in B♭ with instantaneous valve change to F and extra E♭ slide

The purpose of this website is to preserve the history of the F. A. Reynolds Company and the distinctive qualities of its brass instruments. Contempora Corner and contemporacorner.com are not related or associated in any way to the former or current F.A. Reynolds Company.