Harmony 'Roy Smeck Vita-uke' - USA 1927

In mid-June of 1927, Harmony of Chicago released their somewhat wacky "Vita" series of instruments, endorsed by "Wizard of the Strings", Roy Smeck. The line included Hawaiian,Tenor & regular Spanish guitars, a Mandolin & this instrument here, the "Roy Smeck Vita-uke", with figured Cuban Mahogany back & sides, a solid Spruce top & an overall dimension somewhere between a Soprano & Concert size.

These are fantastic sounding ukes, & this example is in great condition..the thin Spruce tops usually develop splits emanating from the oddball 'Seal-shaped' soundholes..this one is entirely crack-free.

It also has a small "Patent Pending" stamp visible through the lower soundhole (or Seal-hole, if you prefer!). These ukes were made until the mid '30s, so this stamp would indicate an early production.

A really cool & collectable ukulele that also plays & sounds fabulous.

Comes with non-original '30s-era case, likely for a Banjo-Mandolin, in excellent condition.