Two centuries of excellence from a Parisian workshop to a global leader in woodwind manufacture

In 2025, Buffet Crampon — a name synonymous with high-quality woodwind instruments — marks an extraordinary milestone: 200 years since its founding. From its beginnings in a small Parisian workshop to its current status as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of clarinets, saxophones, oboes, and brass, the company’s history is rich with innovation, artistry, and international recognition.

Origins in 19th Century Paris

The story of Buffet Crampon begins in 1825, when instrument maker Denis Buffet Auger established a workshop at 20 Passage du Grand Cerf in central Paris. His craftsmanship, particularly with 13-key clarinets, quickly earned him a strong reputation among musicians.

A defining moment came in 1836 when Denis’ son, Jean-Louis Buffet, married Zoé Crampon — a union that gave rise to the now-iconic brand name. By 1844, the Buffet Crampon logo had been introduced, a mark of authenticity still seen on every instrument today.

Expansion and Innovation

In 1850, the company relocated to Mantes-la-Ville in the Yvelines region of France. Starting with just three workers, this site became the hub for Buffet Crampon’s professional clarinet production — a role it continues to hold to this day.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the company expand its portfolio. It began producing saxophones in 1866, just two decades after Adolphe Sax invented the instrument. It also acquired the Evette & Schaeffer Company, using the name for student and intermediate-level instruments while reserving the Buffet Crampon branding for its premium lines.

At its peak, the Evette and Evette & Schaeffer range included an extensive catalog of double reed instruments: 14 oboe models, 8 cor anglais, 18 types of bassoon, and even contrabassoons in both wood and metal. This branding strategy remained in place until the mid-1980s, when the Buffet name began to appear across all clarinet ranges.

Technical Leadership and Iconic Models

One of Buffet Crampon’s most influential figures, acoustics technician Robert Carrée, joined the company in 1921 as an apprentice. His innovations would shape the sound of modern clarinets. In 1950, Carrée developed the now-legendary R13 clarinet, followed by the RC model in 1975 — both of which laid the foundation for later professional instruments such as the Festival and Prestige models.

A Global Presence

The company’s expansion continued into the 21st century. In 2010, Buffet Crampon Deutschland GmbH was established in Markneukirchen, Germany, acquiring a local production facility dedicated to student clarinets. Today, Buffet Crampon instruments are manufactured in both France and Germany and are sold worldwide under several respected brand names including Powell (flutes), Schreiber (bassoons and clarinets), Keilwerth (saxophones), and Besson (brass).

Despite this broad portfolio, the Buffet Crampon name remains most closely associated with clarinets. It continues to be the brand of choice for generations of students and professionals alike.

Instruments for Every Level

At Presto, we are proud to stock a selection of Buffet Crampon instruments that reflect the company’s tradition of excellence. These include the popular Prodige student clarinet, as well as the wooden E11 (produced in Germany) and E13 (crafted in France), ideal for advancing players seeking a professional sound at an intermediate level.

As Buffet Crampon celebrates its bicentenary, its commitment to quality, heritage, and musical expression is as strong as ever — a testament to two centuries of craftsmanship and passion for wind instruments.