This paper deals with modeling of the saturated salient-pole synchronous machines using analytical saturation model obtained based on measurements of steady-state variables. Two different saturation models are considered in order to investigate impact of the reciprocity property of the mutual inductance between d- and q -axis on transients of the saturated machine. It is shown that the simpler saturation model, which is obtained by neglecting the reciprocity property condition, may be used to model saturation in both steady-state and transient conditions. The developed model of the saturated machine is validated with measurements performed on the 34-MVA hydroturbine generator.