View Full Version : Help with Date and Maker please .
Andy Bezza
Dec-18-2018, 5:25pm
I’m trying to find out what I can about this Mandolin I acquired yesterday
I can’t find a label
Thank you
Ray(T)
Dec-19-2018, 11:48am
I’d say first half of the 20C from Germany or Eastern Europe.
Bob A
Dec-19-2018, 12:14pm
Four-post string retainers is a sign of earlier production. Most American-made bowlbacks had 8 tab hooks, so this inclines the instrument toward Europe, probably before 1910-1915. (Seat-of-the-pants WAG here.)
Slotted headstock lifts production north of Italy toward Germany or Central Europe.
Relatively crude construction and materials, as well as low rib count, places the instrument in the lower rungs regarding quality and original price.
Low rib count can be deceptive. There are more than a few high-end mandolins that exhibit this factor, but other indicators will quickly point to the quality of the instrument.
Jim Garber
Dec-20-2018, 2:48pm
+1 for Bob A's post. That may be the best you will do.
The case looks British- circa 1900, so this mandolin was probably imported by a British dealer from central Europe.
LadysSolo
Dec-20-2018, 7:30pm
Looks worth stringing up with ultralight strings and playing!