Military KRRC Bugle c.1940

A rare vintage bugle made by S. Rose & Company, Bombay, attributed to the 1st Cadet Battalion King's Royal Rifles and bearing their badge.

This copper and brass bugle is a proper military grade musical instrument and is of heavy construction. It is not a modern reproduction. Historical adverts show that S. Rose & Co. were manufacturing instruments in Britain before exporting them to Bombay at the turn of the 20th century and beyond. At this time, the KRRC served during the Boer War, which included their older cadet volunteers earning Battle Honours in 1902 as well as serving in India. At the outbreak of WW2, they were again stationed in India and in my opinion, the bugle is consistent with manufacturing practices and techniques from this era, but it could be earlier.

Although the circumstances leading to the fixing of the KRRC badge to the bugle are not known, the bugle is in excellent cosmetic and playable condition, with a dark overall patina.

Code: 51825