Kaholas & Co. Model Soprano Ukulele, most likely made by Gretsch, c. 1925, probably New York City, natural varnish finish, mahogany body and neck, rosewood fingerboard.
This is an unusual ukulele that despite being labeled "Ukulele'O'Hawaii, Kaholas & Co. Highest Grade for Tone Quality and Workmanship" is nearly identical to "Gretsch American" stamped instruments and was certainly made in the same workshop, either in Brooklyn or Chicago.
It is a moderately fancy mahogany uke with 4-ply wooden top binding and soundhole ring, and a prominent volute on the back of the headstock that is a Gretsch trademark. Tuners are the same deluxe Grover "barrel" patent pegs with celluloid buttons found on period Martins and Gibsons, and this rates as a well-made and good-sounding 1920's uke.
Overall length is 20 7/16 in. (51.9 cm.), 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm.) deep. Scale length is 13 1/4 in. (336 mm.).
Very nice condition overall; a couple of repaired grain cracks and a small rubbed-out area of finish on the face. Virtually no playwear�a good-sounding and well-preserved uke. Excellent Condition.
