I too don't understand what everyone is complaining about and why there is a need to file a complaint with ebay. From what I have read here, on the ebay listing, on the FMM forum, and on a past craigslist post by this seller, this is an original Howlett. He was asking around for what it's worth, probably to make money off the sale as I think he got it at an estate sale in Kona. If he thinks it's worth that much, what's wrong with the price? If it sells, then he made a good profit. If an ukes value goes up because of it's popularity or collectability, is it wrong for the seller to ask a high price?
This uke is a beautiful uke by Pete and perhaps there is someone willing to pay the price. In Japan, certain ukes sell for twice what they sell in Hawaii, would it be wrong to sell to Japan? Many popular builders have done good business with the Japanese who are willing to pay the higher price, would you call them jerks too?
Kamaka sells the Jake model at a higher price, sure it's a custom, but it's popularity is due to it being the "Jake" model, is that good business or bad business? Are they jerks? Martins to me aren't worth thousands, like a Martin 5K, but to some they are. So if Pete's ukes can sell for more on ebay, that's a good thing. Pete, I hope this brings more business your way. Handcrafted instruments like yours, in my opinion, have been underpriced due to the influx of asian import instruments.
When will people begin to understand why a custom made uke cost $1500, $2000, $3000. I don't want this to be another battle of custom versus non-custom ukes, but please try to understand why luthiers charge more for their custom ukes and why it would be a huge compliment to Mr. Howlett if someone did purchase this uke.
