c.1920 Paradise of the Pacific Koa Soprano Ukulele

This Hawaiian-made uke smacks of Kumalae influences, but since it's unmarked except for the TABU export stamp in the soundhole and a vague decal at the headstock, it's hard to know who really made it. What's obvious is that it's island-made and probably late-teens, early-1920s in date. This is the 5th of 8 ukes I've worked on for a customer.

Update: Apparently these were made by the Aloha Manufacturing Co which used the brands: Aloha, Paradise of the Pacific, K'Aloha, and Akai.

Repairs included a bridge reglue, top crack cleats, fret level/dress, and setup. This uke is all original except for the recent replaced wood tuner pegs and is made from some nice "golden gingerale" flamed koa.

Who doesn't like the classic peanut body shape?

The decal reads "Hawaii, Paradise of the Pacific." I'll bet ya this was probably hocked at some tourist hotel "back in the day."

I like the 3-ring rosette. Simple rings look so classy in contrast with the fancy wood.

As you can see, that original finish is still gleaming.

This has a fairly steeply-arched back which gives it even more of a "peanut" feel. Note that the neck wasn't covered by the back in normal Spanish heel fashion, though the joint is still a Spanish heel. Maybe this would help determine the maker? I'm not as well versed on Hawaiian makes as I am on mainland ones.

Yessir, she's a beaut!