Seydel 16301C Blues 1847 Silver — Key C Harmonica

The Seydel 16301C Blues 1847 Silver harmonica in Key C represents a refined balance of vintage aesthetics and modern performance. Handcrafted in Germany, this instrument melds silver-plated cover plates with an African Blackwood comb and Seydel’s proprietary 1847 stainless steel reeds on silver-plated brass plates. The result is a harmonica that projects a bright, colorful tone while offering exceptional tuning stability and durability.

Heritage and Design Philosophy

Since 1847, Seydel has been advancing harmonica craft. The Blues 1847 Silver series pays tribute to the brand’s storied legacy, combining traditional forms with cutting-edge materials. The 16301C model in C Major embraces classic Richter tuning favored by blues and folk musicians, delivering soulful expression and versatile playability.

Cover Plates: Silver-Plated Brass

Crafted from high-grade brass and meticulously silver-plated, the cover plates offer a bright sheen and robust projection. Precision milling ensures a snug fit to the comb, eliminating rattles and maximizing resonance. A bead-blast finish diffuses stage lighting, while ergonomic bevels around the mouthpiece provide comfortable lip contact and an airtight seal.

Comb Material: African Blackwood

The comb is machined from African Blackwood, prized for its density and tonal richness. Each comb is hand-sanded and sealed with a moisture-resistant finish, preserving tuning stability and airtightness. The natural warmth of Blackwood complements the bright response of the reeds, resulting in a harmonica voice that is both full-bodied and articulate.

Reeds and Plates: 1847 Stainless Steel on Silver-Plated Brass

Integral to the 16301C’s performance are Seydel’s 1847 stainless steel reeds, laser-cut and heat-tempered for strength and consistency. Mounted on silver-plated brass plates, these reeds combine the warmth of brass with the clarity of stainless steel. Each reed undergoes individual calibration to ensure even response, precise intonation, and smooth bending across all ten holes.

Tuning and Playability: Standard Richter in C Major

The 10-hole Richter tuning in C Major provides powerful blow chords, fluid draw bends on holes 2–6, and a clear upper register on holes 7–10. Optimized airflow channels balance breath resistance and responsiveness, allowing nuanced dynamic control—from subtle bends to strong, bright blasts.

Maintenance and Serviceability

Maintenance is straightforward: stainless steel screws secure the removable reed plates. The harmonica includes a precision screwdriver and cleaning brush for easy disassembly, reed cleaning, and plate removal. Regular servicing sustains optimal performance and extends the instrument’s lifespan.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Measuring 100 × 45 × 12 mm and weighing approximately 50 g, the 16301C strikes a balance between resonant mass and playing comfort. Rounded mouthpiece edges and smooth comb contours reduce lip fatigue, while the secure cover-to-comb fit enhances stability in hand or on a neck rack.

Model	16301C Blues 1847 Silver
Key	C Major (10-hole Richter)
Cover Plates	Silver-Plated Brass
Comb Material	African Blackwood (Sealed)
Reed Material	Stainless Steel Alloy 1847
Reed Plates	Silver-Plated Brass
Holes	10 (Richter)
Tuning	Richter, Draw Bends on Holes 2–6
Maintenance	Removable Reed Plates, Screwdriver & Brush Included
Dimensions	100 × 45 × 12 mm
Weight	Approx. 50 g
Case	Protective Plastic Case
Accessories	Microfiber Cloth, Screwdriver, Cleaning Brush
Warranty	2-Year Limited (Manufacturer Defects)
Origin	Germany (Klingenthal)