F.E. Olds and Son

F.E. Olds & Son is a legendary name in the world of brass instrument manufacturing, with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Originally established as a small workshop in Los Angeles focused on trombone innovation, the brand quickly gained recognition for its precision craftsmanship and groundbreaking designs. By the 1920s, Olds had become a respected manufacturer of custom trombones, offering a variety of bore sizes and bell configurations tailored to individual players. The company expanded steadily, introducing trumpets, cornets, and eventually the iconic Super Olds line in the 1930s—models that would become staples for professionals and students alike. Known for features like dual-valve bass trombones and engraved “Golden Bear” bells, Olds instruments combined functional innovation with artistic detailing.

Post-World War II, Olds grew significantly under new ownership, investing in advanced tooling and broadening its product line to include euphoniums, sousaphones, French horns, and mellophones. One of the company's most influential developments was the launch of the Ambassador series, which brought professional-grade design and performance into the student market—crafted to the same tight tolerances as high-end models. This commitment to quality, regardless of price point, earned Olds a reputation for producing durable, high-performance brass instruments that set the standard for generations of musicians. By the 1960s and '70s, Olds had become one of the most prolific brass manufacturers in the United States, producing over a million instruments and remaining a trusted name in both professional and educational settings.