Paul Hilaire (1906 -1967) worked as Georges Apparut’s first assistant in his workshop in Mirecourt. After Apparut's death, he took over the workshop together with Apparut’s widow. At that time, the firm took the name of "Establissements APPARUT & HILAIRE" and was producing mostly cellos, but also violins and violas. Hilaire initially worked alone, but was eventually able to employ apprentice Jean EULRY, from the Amédée DIEUDONNÉ workshop. His instruments were mainly distributed through Japan and the USA.

This 1963 cello is a work from his later period and as such already embodies a great deal of the wisdom, routine, and experience of a long-time master.