C. F. Martin Style 2-K Model Soprano Ukulele, c. 1919, made in Nazareth, PA, natural laquer re- finish, koa body, mahogany neck, rosewood fingerboard, black soft shell case.
This is an unusual Martin Koa wood ukulele. It appears to have a refinish or overspray in lacquer some time ago (there is some checking visible) and new tuners added fairly recently. Still, it is a rare uke, a very early 2K with a "Southern California Music" stamp on the back of the headstock.
"SoCal" were a large wholesale client of Martin's, and one of their earliest and most important customers for Hawaiian style instruments. It was due to their connection to Southern California Music Co. that Martin first attempted to build Koa instruments -- both ukes and guitars -- and SoCal actually sourced the Hawaiian timber for shipment to Nazareth.
Overall length is 20 1/2 in. (52.1 cm.), 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm.) in depth at side, taken at the end block. Scale length is 13 5/8 in. (346 mm.). Width of nut is 1 3/4 in. (44 mm.).
This uke has no cracks or other repairs; it may have had a neckset at some point. Due to the finish work, the price is considerably lower than it would be for an all-original example. Excellent Condition.
