Djalma Julliot Pre-Patent Prototype Model, Serial Number 235 Ring Key Model Made of French silver, soldered tone holes. Length 685mm, weight 396g. A completely handmade product made with rolled tubing. This flute is a valuable prototype model that Djalma Julliot test-produced between 1895 and 1897 for patent application. As it is a prototype model before the patent application, the special G# lever is designed to be operated with the right hand. Therefore, The serial number is the same as 235, but the manufacturing year is 1895 for the foot joint and 1897 for the body. The patent was applied for in the United States on February 20, 1906, and the patent was obtained on September 20, 1908. See the patent below. http://www.google.com/patents/US901913 Julliot's founding period was from around 1890 to 1925. He was an innovator who used long tenons on most flute foot joints and adopted various special keys and elaborate hand supports. This flute has several special features. It is equipped with his patented G# mechanism. The flute has been completely restored. The pitch seems to have been pushed to around 440. It will probably be playable between 435 and 440. It may be pitched at A=440 because it was sent specifically for the American market. The condition is very good. This flute comes with a very beautiful original walnut case. Julliot flutes have long tenons and will not fit in a standard case. This original case is particularly wonderful. Restoration: Tim Burdick Pitch A=440 - This flute sounds very good when played at A=440. It was made for the American market and sold through Mignolet, Julliot's American agent. The low D and C are a little low, probably because the scale has been lowered, but the tuning is original. Two cases are included for storage: the original (with a key) and a wooden case.