c.1920 SoCal Music Co Koa Ukulele

Here's an all-koa uke, probably late teens or early 20s, labeled "Southern California Music Company" though more than likely made in Chicago as while it appears to have a Hawaiian-style "Spanish heel" it's actually a dowel joint at the neck block. This poor little uke was in pretty beat-up shape when it arrived so after repairs I decided to have a little fun with it to cover up areas where damage marred finish or missing binding meant un-matched fills.

Here's my "Moby Dick" scene... ocean waves and the abominable white whale. When using the casein varnish some of my paint got picked up... oh well... antiqued look? Fair enough for me.

Cute Dias-inspired headstock.

Nice rope binding top and soundhole.

...couldn't really see the label to aim in the bright sunlight but this photo gives you an idea.

Replacement Grover tuners... the originals were missing but were most likely mini Champion pegs -- you can tell from the wear marks underneath the ferrules.

Oh right... big old full-length dryness crack on the back? No problem. Tree... bluebirds... and our Mr. Terrapin Wildwood (the cat) waiting patiently beneath.

Repair work included: neck set, lots of crack repair, bridge reglue, replace missing binding, setup, the whole nine yards. While I'm not actively going to try to sell this uke, if it interests you at all, feel free to contact me. It's a super player with loads of vintage tone and -- VOLUME.