Boosey and Hawkes Emperor E flute 1981 - Who made it?

[iheartbristol]

Hi Everyone

Sorry to be asking a question stright off the bat as a new member of the forum, but i'm really struggling to find information, I'd be really grateful if someone could share their thoughts.

I have an "Emperor E" Boosey and Hawkes Flute with the Cooper pattern head. the serial number is 519508 and "Made in England" is stamped on it. On researching the serial number this tells me that the flute was made in 1981. However Boosey and Hawkes took over Buffet Crampon in 1981 and as far as I'm aware, when Buffet Crampon started making the Emperor E they kept the markings the same but the quality of the flute wasn't as good and it was considered to be a student flute, no longer an intermediate.

I'm sure an expert could probably tell the difference, but does anyone know if I can tell who made it by the serial number? I'm going to lend it to a friend so that they can do their ABRSM grades 7 and 8 as they've been told that their student flute won't cut it, but want to be sure I'm lending them something of good enough quality.

Many Thanks