Uke Yak Fans, Chuck "Frets" Fayne has been the resident expert for "Uke Yak" since 1998. Since that time he has answered almost 6,000 questions related to vintage ukuleles. Over many years, Chuck assembled his own world-class collection of vintage Hawaiian and Mainland ukes, including some amazing one-of-a-kind pieces. It was Chuck’s collection that made up the majority of the ukes in my book, "The Ukulele-A Visual History." Although Chuck has retired from the Uke Yak, his extensive knowledge and unique sense of humor live on in this searchable archive. Enjoy! Search the Uke Yak. Jumpin’ Jim 2015
Flea Market Music Uke Yak (268 of 296) (Chuck "Frets" Fayne has answered the following 5919 questions.)

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Question asked by: Don Stamper Subject: Gibson UB-1 Question: I have a Gibson UB-1 that has been in the family since it was new. It has the original metal strings and appears to be excellent condition, though the finish seems a little dull. No scratches,etc. We never had a case, can they be bought? Should I try the Gibson oil on this instrument? Estimate value on this model? Answer: First I would take off the metal strings and put on nylon. I think the sound is much better. You can use gibson oil...Good stuff. Value? 450.00 approximatly if in great condition. Does it have the resonator ( back plate) and does it have a case. Both of these are important to the value. Without them, you can lower the price by 25%....see ya....frets - Sunday, February 4, 2001

Question asked by: Gary Finger Subject: kamak uke Question: This is the digital image that I said I was sending. We have several more pics if you would to see them. Photos:      Answer: The pic you sent me is of a very nice l928-1935 Kamaka pineapple that looks to be in very good shape. What did you want to know about it exactly..Please write again and I will ask your question. The Pic came thru, but no question. Thanks...Frets fayne - Sunday, February 4, 2001

Question asked by: Brand Subject: strings Question: Hello Chuck, I have A Washburn ( Lyon & Healy) tenor uke.It is in very good shape,but it is obviusly very old; I have recently switched to the black Hilo strings (G.C.E.A.),but they seem much tighter than my old martin strings.Should I worry about the tension on my ukes' neck and/or bridge?P.S. I already took off the wound third string and replaced it with a gut string because the wound string sounded too "guitar-like". Thank-you, "Slim" Answer: You did the best thing by taking the wound string off. When the uke is in tune, you should be able to push the string to the body of the uke at the point where the neck joins the body. If you cannot, you have them too tight. It is a good idea to switch to a softer string. I like a set of old used strings. I think they sound better on the older ukuleles. If all else fails, go to the martin light weight strings. Thanks for the question...chuck fayne - Sunday, February 4, 2001

Question asked by: gary finger Subject: kamaka uke Question: we will send image seperately we have a pinnapple uke model 1928 ser# 4507 with checkering on neck and around hole we believe it to be the deluxe mod. w/origional case. please let us know the approx value and when it was made. reply asap thanks Answer: sorry this did not get into the last answer. We have a new system here at uke yak...and I am just learning all it can do. The uke in the picture is worth about 600+ dollars and more with the original case if it is a hard shell. If the binding is also on the back of the uke it is a style 4 and worth a little bit more. They are very collectible today. There is one model above this one and it is abalone trimmed. Thanks....chuck - Sunday, February 4, 2001

Question asked by: Tom Holden Subject: Vintage Gibson Soprano Question: Reputedly 1920s with "Gibson" (painted in silver) on headstock. Good sound and intonation, but heavily played. Sorry, no pic. They want $320. Your thoughts? Answer: It depends on the model. It would not be a good price for the style one but it would be a great price for the style 3. Please send me a pic if you can and if not a description of the uke. Especially the length of the fingerboard. Does it go below the uke to the soundhole?...What, if any, is the trim around the edge. What type of dots ( number) on the fingerboard. All of these are needed to answer the question...thanks for asking...chuck - Sunday, February 4, 2001

Question asked by: Joe Ciampa Subject: My Kamaka & Martin Ukes (std. size) Question: Both ukes were purchased on the Island of Oahu in 1958. Both are in beautiful condition, especially the Martin (it's been in a case all these years). The Kamaka needs string keys and a case - the keys have cracked and I would like to replace them with original Kamaka keys. Even without the case it is still in extremely good condition (I'm surprised myself). Whom may I contact (and how) to obtain original keys and a good case for the Kamaka. Also, given the condition stated above, can you provide me a narrow range of value for each uke? Thanks, Joe Answer: Joe...I can help you with one part of the question and the other will have to wait. You can get genuine Kamaka tuners from Kamaka in Hawaii. They are in the phone book and on line..Just type in Kamaka....You can order them and the case. I need to know which Kamaka and which Martin you have in order to give you a price. If I told you that they both could be worth between 250.00 and 10,000 depending on the uke....would you believe me...well it is true...So if you would...send me a picture...we have the facility now for doing just that. If you cannot, then I need a detailed description of each...type of wood, length, condition...dips, dents, divots, holes, blebs, wens. rashes etc...edge trim etc...anything you can think of....waiting to hear from you..I remain.......waiting - Wednesday, January 24, 2001

Question asked by: Chris Subject: T.B. Co. Chicago Question: Can you tell me anything about a "Hawaiian" style soprano ukulele from the T.B. Co. of Chicago. It's all koa wood with checkered banding and inlay around the soundhole,rosewood pegs, and a decal inside the body. It's $135.00 but I think it might be refinished and it has a few hairline cracks. Thanks Answer: Chris...It doesn't sound like great buy to me. It is not a hawaiian instrument and usually on the t.b. instruments it is not quality koa. I am doing all of this withough seeing the uke. They were made by the Regal company in the 40-50's and were not a pricey instrument at the time. Unless this is a georgous piece ...given that it is refinished and has some cracks..I would spend my 135 bucks somewhere else. Again, pleae send us a pic here on the uke yak and let me take a look at it. But, Im doubtful....thanks..wish I had better news. chuck - Wednesday, January 24, 2001

Question asked by: Joe Ciampa Subject: My Kamaka & Martin ukes (std.size) Question: Both of these ukes were purchased on the island of Oahu in 1958. Both are in beautiful condition, especially the Martin (it's been in a case all these years). The Kamaka needs string keys and a case - the orginal keys have cracked and I would like to replace them with Kamaka keys. Even without a case all these years, it is still in extremely good condition ( I'm surprised myself). Who may I contact (and how) to obtain a good case and original keys for the Kamaka. Also, given the condtion as stated above, Can you give me a narrow range of value for each uke? Thanks, Joe Answer: The martin is a style o and worth about 400 dollars. The Kamaka...well the pic I got was just of the headstock. I can tell you that those tuners will not be easy to find if you want original tuners. If you want tuners to play the uke, you can purchase a set of friction tuners at any guitar shop. If you will send me a pic at 1.100th the size I will be able to see the uke. Do whatever you did when you sent the pic of the martin. Kamaka is still in business. You might try contacting them in Hawaii or on the net...Just punch in Kamaka....Ask them about the tuners and they will also have a case. Hope I've helped...chuck - Tuesday, January 23, 2001

Question asked by: Keoni Subject: rajao Question: Dear Chuck, In his book "the Ukulele: A Visual History" Jim Beloff describes the rajao as having "five strings (one double course)..." pg. 80. Do you agree with this description of how the rajao was strung? and if not why? regards K Answer: the whole name of the instrument is the machete de rajao...and yes I agree. chuck - Monday, January 22, 2001

Question asked by: Barrie Blakes Subject: Kamaka Question: Barrie has a Kamaka Baritone signed inside by Samuel Kamaka. Barrie says when you strum the uke it is like a letter from home and wants to know what it is worth. Answer: If I got a letter from home it would be from my brother. Believe me, it sounds like nothing like a ukulele. However, if when you strum your uke, it sounds like a letter from home....You either have great imagination or the home is calling...just having some fun..I know exactly what you mean...When I strum my uke it sounds like a telegram from Barny Rubble. I have never told anyone that, so let it be our secret. The signature is a nice touch and to a die-hard collector it adds value. I would have difficulty giving you an exact value, because Kamaka made more styles of Baritones than all the letters I have ever gotten from home. Made in the l960's and in great shape, it ought to be worth at least 400- 500 bucks. Try to send me a pic and I will do a better job. frets - Saturday, January 13, 2001

Question asked by: dan sawyer Subject: Favilla Question: Tell me about them.. Answer: I have seen 4 varieties. 2 types of sopranos, no concerts, 2 types of baritones..and another oddball instrument made for a radio personality named Dave Wimbrow in the 30's. The differences in the Favilla ukes were only the trim. The Wimbrola ( wimbrow's uke) however was quite different. It had nine sides and many different types of sound holes..Dave Wimbrow had the instruments made for friends and he autographed each one by scratching a message, their name and his on each ukulele. The Wimbrolas also had 6 strings. The company originally went into the business of ukuleles to give Martin a run for their money...They did a pretty good job. They are good instruments. There are many of them surviving today, proof that they were well made. The company was in business from 1890-1973. I forgot that they also made a teardrop shaped version of the soprano in many color designs. A favilla,up until a few years ago was an inexpensive instrument. Not any more. They have joined the ranks of the sought after and hence the price has gone up. Thanks for the question, I knew more than I thought I did....chuck - Saturday, January 13, 2001

Question asked by: Ed Dunbar Subject: Kamaka Question: Ed has a kamaka pineapple ukulele circa l930, that was seen by sam kamaka. What is sthe value in today's market. Answer: I'm not sure how to go about the answer on this one. I can't imagine how Sam Kamaka seeing a uke would have any bearing on its value. I have written this before, but I guess it bears repeating. Most manufacturers made many varieties of ukuleles. The name is not enough. It is a good start, but it is only that....a start. I need to know which model it is..I realize that is tough for most who are not familiar with the different styles, however a description or a picture would be a great start. Then comes condition, cracks, blemishes, zits, wens, blebs, spider veins, hang nails and all the other things that effect the value of your ukulele. PLEASE.....do your best to give more than a name. I can tell you one thing about your Kamaka circa 1930...its a good instrument made by one of the best makers in the world. Now you take it from there. Write me again with the description or send me a pic on my personal email.....cfayne@bluep.com.au thanks again...frets fayne - Thursday, January 4, 2001

Question asked by: JOHN DEDEAUX Subject: nunes uke Question: John has been offered a uke that the seller claims is a nunes from 1890. Wants to know how to I.D. it. Answer: First of all, a Nunes uke from 1890 would be very early and very rare. I assume it has no label or decal since you are asking how to I.D. it. I could do the job if I could see a picture or hold it in my hand. There are certain tell- tale signs of a genuine Nunes Uke, however, without some stamp or label there is no real way to tell. Is $1000.00 a good deal? It might be the best deal you will ever make and it might be tossing your money in the crapper. Please try to send me a picture...This applies to all out there, not just John. Since the Ukulele market has gone beserk, so have the people. I have heard of labels being put inside ukes that they don't belong in...be careful, especially when you are talking about the 1000 range for a uke. Thats alot of dough....You need a professional opinion if there is any question at all. Most of this kind of stuff is being done with hawaiian ukes. Mainland ukes are very difficult because the better makers used decals or stamps to identify their ukes. So, if you have any suspicions at all, get a second opinion. In this market today, its buyer beware. When Ukuleles start selling in the 10,000-20,000 range its tempting to some. The reason for the target market being the Hawaiian makers, is that there were so many of them. They all copied each other and without labels or decals, it is very hard to tell them apart. Certain makers are easy, even without labels. These are Kamaka, Paul Summers ( he stamped many of his ukes) Sam Chang ( same reason)...but when you get to the Kumalae era, the copycat makers did a good job. So, if there is any doubt, please write me and I will attempt to put you in touch with someone near you who can help you identify your ukulele. John, thanks for this question, I have been meaning to do a little piece on this for a long time and your letter gave me the shove in the butt I needed. Please don't be afraid to ask the seller for a second opinion. If they say no...well I guess you don't need a second opinion. chuck fayne - Thursday, January 4, 2001

Question asked by: John Green Subject: johnny Marvin Question: Hows $375.00 Answer: Sounds great to me. I'd pay that for a good Johnny Marvin Tenor Uke. The interesting thing about that particular uke is that it is not a tenor at all...it is a concert. Airplane bridge, Mother of Toilet Seat Headstock, ...some wear, no tear...$375.00...grab it..its a good deal...Great players. You forgot to mention the wood. Id it Mahogany or Koa. If it is Koa...It is called the Prince of Wales ( among other names) and very rare. Thanks for writing and yes I would accept it as a present for being such a cool dude. Even though you didn't offer. chuck ( always trying) fayne - Thursday, January 4, 2001

Question asked by: LEILA ALBERICI Subject: keech and jetel Question: tell me about them both., Answer: alvin and kelvin keech invented the banjolele or banjo uke or ukelele banjo...they lived in hawaii at the time. They were made in the 20's -40's the later batch made in england. The early ones are much better quality. How much are they worth? It depends on which one it is. I have your description, but really need a picture. They made dozens of different styles and they all sort of sound like yours. It depends on so many things. Condition, case, wood, etc. Please write me again at my e mail address and send a pic if you can. As far as the Jetel Ukulele is concerned, this is the first time I have ever heard the name. I would love to see a pic of this ukulele. It only goes to prove, that when I think I know it all, I realize I know very little. A new name pops up every day. From the description you give, especially the off set tuning pegs, it sounds british. Please send me a pic of this one also. If anyone out there knows anything about this brand, please write in. Thanks for the questions. frets - Thursday, January 4, 2001

Question asked by: CHUCK FAYNE Subject: HELLOO AND HAPPY NEW YEAR Question: SEE BELOW Answer: HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL AND SORRY I HAVE BEEN AWAY FOR SO LONG. WORKIN' ON A CRUISE SHIP AND COMPUTER PROBLEMS KEPT ME AWAY. A LITTLE TOUCH OF OF THE LAZYS AS WELL BUT WILL CATCH UP QUICKLY. - Thursday, January 4, 2001

Question asked by: CHUCK FAYNE Subject: HARRY EIBERT LUTHIER OF THE MONTH Question: NO QUESTION....EACH MONTH I WILL FEATURE A LUTHIER I AM PERSONALLY FAMILIAR WITH. THIS IS A PERAONAL OPINION AND NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINION OF THE WEB SITE. Answer: I TOLD YOU ALL THAT I WOULD FEATURE A LUTHIER OF THE MONTH. THIS MONTH'S LUTHIER IS A MAN MANY OF YOU ALREADY KNOW. HIS WORK HAS BEEN FEATURED IN VINTAGE GUITAR MAGAZINE AND IN THE BOOK BY JIM BELOFF..THE UKULELE, A VISUAL HISTORY....HE WILL ALSO HAVE ONE OF HIS CREATIONS FEATURED IN A BOOK TO COME OUT NEXT YEAR IN HAWAII CALLED' HAWAIIAN COLLECTIBLES AND ANTIQUITIES'...WHO IS HE? HE IS HARRY EIBERT...LUTHIER EXTRAORDINARE. HE MAKES A FULL RANGE OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS FROM GUITARS, HARP GUITARS, MANDOLINS AND JUST ABOUT ANYTHING YOU MIGHT WANT. HE IS THE LUTHIER WITH THE SENSE OF HUMOR....HE MADE FOR ME AN AIRPLANE UKE, LOOSELY FASHIONED AFTER THE HARMONY AIRPLANE UKE OF THE 40'S...HE ALSO MADE A HARP UKE. BOTH OF THESE INSTRUMENTS CAN BE FOUND IN BACK ISSUES OF VINTAGE GUITAR. HE IS TRULY A MAN FOR ALL INSTRUMENTS. HE CAN REPAIR, BUILD, INVENT, CREATE AND MODIFY...ALL WITH AN EXTRAORDINARY LEVEL OF CRAFTSMANSHIP. TOO MANY BUILDERS TODAY JUST SLAP TOGETHER A FEW PIECES OF WOOD, STICK STRINGS AND WIRE ON THEM AND CALL THEM INSTRUMENTS. THEY LACK THE ONE THING HARRY HAS ALOT OF....EXPERIENCE...NOTHING WILL THE PLACE OF ONE. WHO ALONG THE ROAD OF EXPERIENCE, HAS TRIPPED IN A MISTAKE HOLE ONCE IN A WHILE. ILOVE HIS WORK AND RANK IT WITH THE BEST. IF I FORGOT THIS PART, HE IS ALSO ONE HELL OF A GUY. PLEASE GIVE HIM A TRY...HE CAN BE REACHED AT THE FOLLOWING.. HARRY EIBERT 4136 HOWLETT HILLS RD SYRACUSE, N.Y. 13215 TELEPHONE 315-4884115 EMAIL CBURTON@DREAMSCAPE.COM THE AIRPLANE AND HARP UKE HANG IN MY HOUSE...THEY ARE WORKS OF ART AS WELL AS BEING WONDERFUL SOUNDING INSTRUMENTS. IF IT SOUNDS LIKE I ADMIRE THIS MAN...I DO...YOU WILL TOO....THANKS..CHUCK FAYNE - Friday, December 8, 2000

Question asked by: John Acord Subject: mexican martin Question: Do I like the new Martin Ukes made in Mexico? Answer: NO...They are cheaply made, shallow in sound and in my opinion a mistake...Martin could have entered the market with the old, better made uke and still made a killing. I think they are trying to capture the cheap end of a fad. they may do it, but at what cost? just an opinion...but I have had a some experience with these little instruments, and I don't like the new martin at all. chuck - Friday, December 8, 2000

Question asked by: john letham Subject: silvertone concert uke Question: silvertone concert uke witha black to brown sunburst..finish white paing soundhole rim. Whats it worth. Answer: Not much as a collectors item. Millions made to sell at the Sears Stores. Some can sound pretty good. Thanks for writing in..chuck - Friday, December 8, 2000

Question asked by: lew stern Subject: banjoe uke Question: Every hear of a banjo uke manufactured by the "Nu Way" company. Answer: No...send picture...can tell you it was not a manufacturer..never heard of it and probably built by one of the hundreds of banjo uke makers of the 30's and 40's..please send picture...name is not enough...chuck - Friday, December 8, 2000

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