Harmony H-35 "Batwing" electric mandolin 1970 - Sunburst

Here's an example of an important mandolin model in the history of popular music. Blues legends Yank Rachell and (to a lesser extent) Carl Martin, as well as Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones, used the Harmony H35 (later renamed H835) as a stage mandolin during their careers. You still see them today in the hands of pro musicians.
     The looks of the H35 have, in my humble opinion, never been beaten. The block inlays, modified F-holes, exaggerated bass point, even the lovely gold foil pickup cover, all add up to a classic package. The original DeArmond pickup is loud enough to rattle the windows. Its tone is perhaps best described as "raw" ... listen to Rachell's Chicago Style album if you want to know what I mean. But for certain styles of music there's nothing better or more authentic.
     Also colloquially known as the "Batwing," the H35 may appear to be an acoustic/electric, but it isn't really: if you took off the top you'd see that everything north of the pickup is a solid block of wood, which tends to dampen the acoustic sound, but improves sustain and helps control feedback from the pickup. Best to think of the H35 as "semi-hollow." Tone and volume knobs, adjustable bridge, bolt-on neck.
This H35 is labeled F-70 MADE IN U.S.A., meaning it was built in the first half of 1970. It has seen some use and is in reasonable condition apart from minor finish wear on the treble point and more extensive finish wear on the bass horn. A strap button has been added at the bass horn, and the original bridge has been replaced with a compensated ebony Gibson-style 2-piece adjustable one.
     It has the desirable truss rod, die-cut 3-ply vinyl headplate with the cut-out Harmony logo, and matching logo on the pickguard. Gig bag included.