I'm very curious about the octave mandolin's history in the USA, especially the F styles.
None of the early makers, Gibson, Washburn/Lyon & Healy, Martin seem to have made them. The earliest F style OMs made for the US market that I know of are the '80s Kentuckys imported by Saga and very few of these were made. Mandolas and mandocellos appear to be relatively much more common. Any info on OM history would be appreciated. Thanks. - Ken
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