Satin finished mandolins?

[swankerme]

I'm really partial to the Gibson F-9. I don't like flash and flair with my instruments. Are there any other makes/models known for a minimal style like the Gibson F-9? Satin finish, no fretboard inlays, no sunburst? I'm beware of the Weber Bitterroot but even that instrument has inlays.

I'm sure someone could make such an instrument but I doubt it would cost in the $2 to $3,000 range like the old F-9s.

[Pittsburgh Bill]

I often see Pava Mandolins advertsed with a satin finish.. I would think that you could custom order an A style without inlays very close to your sought after price range. I have never played or even seen a Pava but her mandolins appear to be highly regarded on the Cafe by players that have.
Ditto for Morris mandolins (probably below your price range)
Happy Shopping!

[Br1ck]

How far back are you going for sub $3000 F 9s? Probably back as far as when you could get a nice Collings guitar for under $3000. But I agree with you that an F 9 is a nice aesthetic. Weber Galatins have no binding even. Audy Ratliff makes a Country Boy that is pared down. He'd probably make it as simple as you want it. No dot markers are going to eliminate a lot of mandolins. I am toying going in that direction with my Stew Mac kit in progress.

[sbhikes]

I almost bought a The Loar that had a satin finish and gold painted flower on the head instead of shell inlay. It was about $600 or so, not a high-end instrument. I really liked the appearance of it. Instead I got a shiny one and I've never liked its shininess.

[addamr]

I believe Ratliff country boy f style is 1999.00 new. If you like that minimalist look you wouldn't go wrong there.

Adam

[swankerme]

I believe Ratliff country boy f style is 1999.00 new. If you like that minimalist look you wouldn't go wrong there.

Adam

Very nice! That's a nice instrument, thanks!

[mixolydia]

I second the Pava satin. I think they are $2500 new.