Howe-Orme Mandolinetto

A family member has opened an online estate auction of a recently passed musical enthusiast and collector. There are numerous banjos, fiddles, and other musical instruments that might be of interest to some forum members here - most notably a Howe-Orme Mandolinetto. I personally don't have any information or knowledge of the items being auctioned, but wanted to pass along as I know some of these items have a passionate following and can be hard to find.

As with all old instruments, it would be great to see these items find new life in a good home.

https://baerauctions.hibid.com/catal...nline-auction/

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I have one of those; they're fun. Bought mine on eBay advertised as a "wall hanger," got it fixed up so it plays. Chirps like a canary...

Me too, Allen. They are fun as you said. I find you have to learn to play them like they want to be played - they are not bluegrass machines. Mine had the neck falling off, but was put back together by someone I trust and it works great. It had been refinished, but very well done and looks original except for a little "too new". The one Boomstick is showing has an interesting tailpiece!

Thanks Boomstick, I second your wish that this one find a good home.

Checked out the auction as it is about 90 minutes from where I live, the Mandolinetto is now up to $105.00 Most of the instruments are fiddles/violins.

If you can get it for less than $300 -- assuming you want a mandolinetto -- I think it'd be a good deal, perhaps even a wise investment.

I am seriously considering putting in a bid. I have played a few mandolinettos and have wanted a Howe Orme for a while.

I have to figure out how I am going to pick up the darn thing. It is a six hour drive.


I see a link for shipping, I will check that out.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by JeffD

I am seriously considering putting in a bid. I have played a few mandolinettos and have wanted a Howe Orme for a while.

I have to figure out how I am going to pick up the darn thing. It is a six hour drive.


I see a link for shipping, I will check that out.

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Shipping can definitely be arranged. I helped the family sell a couple of banjos a few years back and they were able to arrange for secure shipping.

Thanks.

Yes, I have been in touch with a shipper and have estimated costs. We'll see what happens.

Don't forget these auctions usually have a "buyers premium" (I think that's what it's called) - a percentage you have to pay above and beyond the bid price.

Also - from the photos it looked like there were some cracks in the back, which hopefully shouldn't be a big deal for a good luthier to fix, but these HO's also have very thin wood, so it will need some care. Otherwise this one looks like it might be in pretty good shape.

Beautiful mandolinetto!