c.1917 Vega Bowlback Mandolin

Serial numbers place this nice Vega bowlback to 1917. It's in entirely original condition save for 12 new frets, new fretboard binding, and some new strings. I repaired and set this up this for a customer but have not restored the finish or polished up any of the hardware, leading to a nice "very original patina" look. That's not to say it's dirty -- this is exceptionally clean for its years. The sound is that way, too -- clear, chipper, and very pretty with a good bite and quite loud. Very balanced. Basically... a pleasure to the ears and fingers (especially the wider neck).

Top is good grade spruce, neck is mahogany, bowl is rosewood, and headstock veneer is rosewood. Celluloid binding with nice, attractive inlaid purfling and rosette. Ebony fretboard with MOP dots.

Headstock. Ivoroid buttons in recessed tuner housings (I love that touch). Original bone nut.

As far as work went, I refretted the first 12 frets, reglued the fretboard in position, and rebound it, as well as a crack repair on the bowl and a fill of the top hairline that's popping out on the top in the afternoon sun... and a general setup.

Overall I think this is a great professional-feeling bowl and hopefully it'll get played a lot as it definitely deserves it. Nice ebony bridge (original, too).

Fretboard.

Rosette.


Back.


Tuners.


Side.


Front.


Back.


Label.


Amazingly, tailpiece still retains its cover!