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Thread: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

  1. #1

    Default Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins


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  3. #2

    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins


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  5. #3
    Registered User
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    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    Nice collection! I like bowlbacks.

  6. #4
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    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    Me too.
    Eastman 504, Eastman 305, Grafton P-200 open back mandolin banjo

  7. #5
    Mando-Accumulator Jim Garber's Avatar
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    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    I posted this on the comments under your YouTube video but I will repeat my comments here:

    The first two mandolins were both made by Lyon & Healy. That is the Washburn (their best brand) and the second which looks like an American Conservatory, their middle line.

    I don't think the Rex was made by Lyon & Healy but by Gretsch or else they had it built for them in the NY/NJ area. Your Washburn is the highest quality of the ones you show. Look around for a decent simple Vega. Those are excellent mandolins and can sometimes be acquired for a good price.

    Also, to my ears the best strings (in general) for these vintage bowlbacks are Dogal Calace RW92b Dolce strings. They really bring out the best tone and I use the on many of my vintage bowlbacks. As you can see I like these as well.

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    Jim

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  9. #6
    Barn Cat Mandolins Bob Clark's Avatar
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    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Garber View Post
    As you can see I like these as well.

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    Wow, Jim, for a minute there I thought it was a picture of Horseshoe crabs coming up onto the beach to mate! (Anyone who has seen this will catch the resemblance). Really though, Jim, just joking. That's a beautiful collection you have there. I'll bet you really enjoy them.

    Best wishes,

    Bob
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  10. #7
    Mando-Accumulator Jim Garber's Avatar
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    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    Quote Originally Posted by Bob Clark View Post
    Wow, Jim, for a minute there I thought it was a picture of Horseshoe crabs coming up onto the beach to mate! (Anyone who has seen this will catch the resemblance). Really though, Jim, just joking. That's a beautiful collection you have there. I'll bet you really enjoy them.

    Best wishes,

    Bob
    I think I did post that photo along with the horseshoe crabs. For your entertainment...

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    Jim

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  12. #8

    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    I'm jealous, I would settle for one decent bowlback. But I think that's what holds me back, I only want one...

  13. #9
    Mando-Accumulator Jim Garber's Avatar
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    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    Personally I would look for a Vega, even a simple one, in good structural shape. They are excellent. Washburns, American Conservatory, Martins (tho higher priced), Weymanns are also good.
    Jim

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  14. #10

    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    Showing off my other mandolins:



    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVuu38eaqMw

  15. #11
    Full Grown and Cussin' brunello97's Avatar
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    Default Re: Showing off my collection of bowlback mandolins

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Garber View Post
    Personally I would look for a Vega, even a simple one, in good structural shape. They are excellent. Washburns, American Conservatory, Martins (tho higher priced), Weymanns are also good.
    +1 on Jim's suggestion for a Vega. I think they are the lightest built, most resonant of the big US makers.
    Folks are on to Vega and Martin, of course, so you'll pay a bit more...or park a bit more money as you'll likely always get your money back out at resale.
    In terms of $$/value ratio: no question for me that it would be Lyon + Healy's American Conservatory line. Same excellent woods they used on their Washburn models. Huge numbers of them were made and they tend to fall under the radar.
    Everyone needs a bowl or two....
    Mick
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