Can anyone identify this old instrument?

chris667 · May 24, 2020

Recently, I bought a ukulele from a certain auction site. Normally I wouldn't buy an instrument unseen, but it was not expensive, and I wanted a gamble.

What is it? From looking at the back I think it is maple. It has an arched back and no kerfing like a Brueko, but it has a thinner neck and violin pegs. The bridge reminds me of an old Harmony I once owned, but the overall quality is better than a Harmony.

It sounds really nice with new strings.

Pictures here:

https://www.fastmail.com/files/1754841712/?u=33f341ae

ksiegel · May 24, 2020

chris667 said:
Recently, I bought a ukulele from a certain auction site. Normally I wouldn't buy an instrument unseen, but it was not expensive, and I wanted a gamble.

What is it? From looking at the back I think it is maple. It has an arched back and no kerfing like a Brueko, but it has a thinner neck and violin pegs. The bridge reminds me of an old Harmony I once owned, but the overall quality is better.

It sounds really nice with new strings.

Pictures here:

https://www.fastmail.com/files/1754841712/?u=33f341ae

Fastmail requires a login. Can't see pictures.

chris667 · May 24, 2020

Sorry! Try again:

http://betterbitter.co.uk/What did I buy part 2/

ksiegel · May 25, 2020

Are those wooden friction pegs? Otherwise, it kinda looks like a Harmony uke...

I am not an expert, by any means. That's just what i see.

-Kurt

river_driver · May 25, 2020

It’s not a Harmony, not with that small soundhole and that weird bridge. I don’t think it’s an American build at all. But I’m at a loss to say what it is.

chris667 · May 25, 2020

ksiegel said:
Are those wooden friction pegs? Otherwise, it kinda looks like a Harmony uke...

I am not an expert, by any means. That's just what i see.

-Kurt

Yes, wooden pegs. And that formed back and interior construction without any kerfing. It's too well made to be a Harmony.

30svintage · May 25, 2020

I have not a clue to maker but that sunburst back is super cool!

chris667 · May 25, 2020

It is, isn't it? I wonder if the front has darkened with age.

merlin666 · May 25, 2020

It certainly looks old definitely pre war. Unfortunately ukulele in those times was very popular and hundreds of companies existed and most disappeared and are long forgotten. Check out Lardy's database for an overview of some brands.

Can anyone identify this old instrument?

chris667

Well-known member

ksiegel

Probably unknown member

chris667

Well-known member

ksiegel

Probably unknown member

river_driver

Well-known member

chris667

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30svintage

UU VIP

chris667

Well-known member

merlin666

Well-known member

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