Up for sale is a beautiful vintage 1978 Holton H180 double French horn (Serial #553201). Designed in the classic Farkas tradition (Kruspe wrap), the H180 is highly regarded by advanced students and orchestral professionals for its free-blowing nature, excellent projection, and dark, resonant intonation.

This specific horn has just returned from a comprehensive professional bench service and is 100% gig-ready out of the case.

Recent Professional Service (October 2026): This horn recently underwent a full professional servicing by a master brass technician. The work included:

• Complete disassembly and ultrasonic chemical cleaning.
• Precision slide alignment and greasing.
• Full rotary valve service (rotors polished, re-strung, and re-aligned).
• Replacement of all rotor bumpers and felts.
• Play-tested and sealed to ensure excellent valve compression and fast, noiseless mechanical action.

Specifications:

• Key: F/Bb Double Horn
• Bore Size: .468" (11.89mm)
• Bell: 12.25" Large-Throated, Hand-Hammered Yellow Brass
• Wrap: Kruspe style (Farkas design)
• Leadpipe (Mouthpipe): .310 Venturi, Nickel Silver
• Slides: Solid Nickel Silver (Inside and Outside)

Cosmetic Condition:

As a vintage instrument from 1978, this horn shows honest cosmetic wear from play. There is typical lacquer wear at the standard hand contact points and a few very minor, superficial dings along the branches. However, there is no major structural damage, the bell flare is in excellent shape, and all slides and mechanics are perfectly smooth following its recent overhaul. Please review all photos carefully, as they are the definitive representation of the item's condition. What you see is exactly what you will receive.

This is a fantastic opportunity to own a golden-era American-made Holton double horn that boasts a dark, symphonic sound and zero mechanical guesswork. Includes original hard-shell case (some wear, but all latches work and the case is completely functional). No mouthpiece included.