I have always liked the classic look of jazzy Archtop Guitars, so I've been looking at who makes something like that in an Ukulele. I found Toby Chennell of Jazz Box Ukes in Bornemouth, Great Britain. He is specialized in hand-carving arched instruments, and a very nice fellow to deal with. If you want to know more about him, here is his website, and an insightful documentary about his work.
The instrument he made for me is an all blonde Tenor with black appointments, classic combination of Maple and Spruce, with both top and back lusciously arched, Ebony fretboard, bridge, and tailpiece, Maple binding around the body, fingerboard, and headstock, a cutaway, Violin f-holes and a bound side sound port to enhance what the player hears. It's protected by a super sturdy case which, from what I understand, is built by Toby himself as well.
The uke has arrived today, and it's very special indeed. Thanks Toby, for making this instrument for me, and for letting me show the pictures you took:
The instrument he made for me is an all blonde Tenor with black appointments, classic combination of Maple and Spruce, with both top and back lusciously arched, Ebony fretboard, bridge, and tailpiece, Maple binding around the body, fingerboard, and headstock, a cutaway, Violin f-holes and a bound side sound port to enhance what the player hears. It's protected by a super sturdy case which, from what I understand, is built by Toby himself as well.
The uke has arrived today, and it's very special indeed. Thanks Toby, for making this instrument for me, and for letting me show the pictures you took: