Custom I’iwi “25th Anniv.” Tenor Ukulele

C.2021. Preowned. Custom ‘I’iwi ‘1879 Model’ Tenor Ukulele. Phenomenal player ukulele paying tribute to the forefathers of the ukulele – August Dias, Manuel Nunes, and Jose do Espirito Santo. The 1879 Model is a limited design handcrafted by master luthier Charlie Fukuba of Makakilo, Oahu. This tribute piece features a slightly less rounded body shape at the shoulders and a tighter waistline, in contrast to the more traditional dreadnought design of his original tenor body. This new body mold offers a wonderful sound with an aesthetic all its own. It is a combination of old traditions such as the rope binding, Hawaiian coat of arms headstock inlay, and the Roman numeral position marker on the 12th, celebrating 25 years of ukulele luthiery. Simultaneously, this ukulele also embraces contemporary luthierie techniques such as 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 with a Port Orford Cedar wood soundboard, this full custom ʻI’iwi ‘1879 Model’ tenor ukulele also boasts an instrument grade West African Gabon ebony fretboard and bridge with a composite veneer called, ‘Rocklite’ with a Hawaiian coat of arms headstock inlay of padauk wood. Elegant and complimentary Hawaiian Koa wood top and back binding with a classy top black and side and back b-w purfling line for aesthetic appeal. The neck has been carved from Honduran 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. Single roman numeral position marker on the 12th position for quick reference. Roman numerals were used on all official government documents published in the Hawaiian Kingdom of its time – XXV was inlaid on position 12, celebrating Charlie’s 25th year of ukulele luthiery. Side-of-neck position markers for a quick and accurate top-down reference for each chord. Ebony and padauk 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 a monitor-like experience when playing bound with Black-White ebony wood. The body design is unique and less rounded than his traditional model, with a slightly tighter waistline, giving it a warmer 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. A few minor cosmetic strum marks on the upper bout.

The aesthetics of this Custom I’iwi ’25th Anniv.’ Tenor Ukulele brings you back to a time of historical significance in Hawaii’s history. A time when the ukulele was first born in the late 1800s by 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#250045

Price: $4,000.00