Cortez bowl back

[Patrick Madden]

A friend is allowing me to 'babysit' a Cortez bowl back mandolin. It was her late husband's and she has no information on it. I would guess it is at least 25 years old. It is a model #M6 according to the label inside.
It is is excellent condition - no scratches, no cracks, no fret wear and the neck appears to be straight as could be.
I am not terribly impressed with the tone. I don't think it compares well to my A model (20's Gibson) It sounds kind of shallow.
Anyway, I told her I would try to determine its value. Any ideas where I might start?
Also, what strings would be best suited for this type of an instrument while I am baysitting it? OK to string it up with J-74's?
Thanks,
Patrick

[Jim Garber]

It might help to take some pics, however, I have seen bowlbacks with a Cortez label that resemble one made by Suzuki of Japan, despite the Spanis-sounding name.'

Jim

[Martin Jonas]

As far as I know, Cortez was a name of convenience used by a German importer of Japanese mandolins. As Jim said, they look just like Suzukis, and most likely that's exactly what they are. I'm not a fan of Suzuki bowlbacks, and I although I haven't played one wouldn't think that I'd like the Cortez either.

Suzukis came in quite a range of quality, so a photo would be helpful. In general, I'd put them at $200 to $300. J74s are too heavy, but J62 should be fine.

Martin