Oahu Model 229K Model Lap Steel Electric Guitar, made by Kay, c. 1939, made in Chicago, sunburst lacquer finish, mahogany body and neck, rosewood fretboard, original brown chipboard case.
An interesting and fiarly early Oahu-branded steel guitar built by Kay, one of both company's earlier electric offerings. All wood construction (even the handrest!) except for a cast metal bridge. There is an unusual hi/low output switch on the botom of the guitar mounted to a metal plate covering the electronics, a feature specific to this model. A rather conservative instrument even for the time, but classy looking and well made.
Overall length is 35 in. (88.9 cm.), 10 1/4 in. (26 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 25 1/2 in. (648 mm.). Width of nut is 2 in. (51 mm.). A lot of finish wear overall but appears original except tuners ('70's Japanese strip units) and an added jackplate on the treble side (the original cord was likely hardwired to the guitar). Works fine, a neat and good sounding prewar steel. Overall Very Good + Condition.
