1920 Martin 3K Ukulele

The 1920s era model Martin & Co ukuleles are truly wonderful historical pieces and benchmark an era of research & development (R&D) for the Martin company with regard to its ukulele production. These instruments came at a time when interest in Hawaii was on the rise and only a few hundred Martin ukuleles were initially handcrafted, tested, and sold. This was long before the mass production of Martin ukuleles came about post 1930s.

The 1920 Martin & Co 3K ukulele can be characterized by its short crown on the headstock, slightly wider neck, oversized fretboard, primitive bridge design and rounded keel-block. Another unique characteristic is the fretboard which is handcrafted from Brazilian rosewood rather than ebony wood which is what is found in later models. These early Martin 3K ukuleles have a white celluloid diamond shaped inlay on the headstock and abalone shell position marker inlay on  the fretboard with a bow-tie position marker on position 7.

The overall weight of the instrument is also significantly lighter than the post 1925 models that have passed through and I suspect that this is due in part to the overall thickness of the wood on these early pieces. This could be a contributing factor to the incredible projection, clarity, and sustain these early pieces have that indefinitely separate them from the later production models. Absolutely amazing!

There is some minimal play wear and light finish wear in a couple of spots but nothing serious. This instrument is in all original condition with the exception of only one friction tuner being repaired. The repaired tuner is not shown in any of the photos since I took these photos before the tuner broke. The tuner has since been re-glued. The hard case is also the original case and is structurally sound although it has sustained aging over the last 90 years!

These rare 1920s era Martin 3K ukuleles certainly make for some interesting and historical characteristics as the instrument was being refined in Nazareth, PA. So-much-so that you can still see the course sanding marks as the luthiers of yesteryear handcrafted this historical ukulele.

Price: SOLD