Custom I’iwi ‘1879 Model’ Tenor Ukulele

New. Custom ‘I’iwi ‘1879 Model’ Tenor Ukulele. Phenomenal player uke paying tribue to the forefathers of the ukulele – August Dias, Manuel Nunes, and Jose do Espirito Santo. The 1879 Model is a new design handcrafted by master luthier Charlie Fukuba of Makakilo, Oahu. This tribute piece bears a slightly less rounded body shape at the shoulders and a tighter waistline in contrast to the more dreadnought design of his traditional tenor body. This new body mold offers a wonderful sound with an aesthetic all its own. It is a blend of old traditions such as the rope binding, Hawaiian coat of arms headstock inlay, and the roman numeral position markers to name a few. Simultaneously, it is a wonderful blend of modern luthierie by which Charlie incorporated a side sound port, a contemporary body design, and so much more. The attention to detail is wonderful and in collaboration with his son, this instrument is the first model to be designed by Charlie and his son – testifying to I’iwi’s commitment to the finest materials, craftsmanship, and creativity in skilled ukulele luthiery from Hawaii.

Gorgeous master grade Hawaiian curly Koa wood back and sides from Charlie’s special ‘reserve’ of premium woods and his first ukulele handcrafted with a figured Redwood soundboard; this full custom ʻI’iwi ‘1879 Model’ tenor ukulele also boasts an instrument grade West African Gabon ebony fretboard and bridge with a Walnut wood veneer and Hawaiian coat of arms headstock inlay of Maple wood. Elegant and complimentary Rocklike wood top and back composite binding with an classy top, back, and side profile b-w purfling line for aesthetic appeal. Rocklite is a revolutionary and totally environmentally friendly approach to tonewoods for musical instruments. It looks and sounds like real ebony, and is very black unlike most ebony available today. The neck has been carved from Honduras mahogany wood and has a graphite composite rod insert for increased structural integrity and added sustain with a bolt-on neck that is accessed through the strap pin at the butt of the instrument. Period-specific roman numeral position markers on the 3, 5, 7, 10, and 12th positions respectively just as what was used on all official government documents published in the Hawaiian Kingdom of its time. A special roman numeral XXV was inlaid on position 15 celebrating Charlie’s 25th year of ukulele luthiery in 2020. Side-of-neck position markers for a quick and accurate top-down reference for each chord. Ebony and maple wood inlay was used for the Hawaiian Kahili rosette, adding to the wonderful theme of this gorgeous ukulele. The Hawaiian Kahili is the symbol of the ali’i or ‘Hawaiian Chiefs’ and represents the families and governing parties of the Hawaiian Islands of yesteryear. Side sound port for monitor like experience when playing bound with Black-White ebony wood. The body design is entirely unique and less rounded than his traditional model with a slightly tighter waistline, giving it a more warm and traditional sound. Hand-rubbed true oil finish for a smooth to the touch feel. Professional Gotoh UPT geared tuners for smooth and precise tuning.

The aesthetics of this Custom I’iwi ‘1879 Model’ Tenor Ukulele brings you back to a time of historical significance in Hawaii’s history. A time when the ukulele was first created by the forefathers. A. Dias, M. Nunes, and J.E. Santo under the rule of King David Kalakaua and his Hawaiian Kingdom. Tonally, this piece is a true gem and a remarkable ukulele for recording musicians or ukulele enthusiasts. Full recording level instrument with a balanced and warm tone. Excellent projection and clarity. This beauty has the sound of a seasoned instrument although it was only just completed. Very well balanced structurally and tonally with refined notes all the way up the neck and spot on intonation. Highly recommended tribute piece for the seasoned player, ukulele enthusiast, or collector. ID#200061

Price: SOLD