Harmony / Alden H88 Doublet Stratotone 1958-59 / A Time Capsule!

Wow! What have we here?  

This is a Harmony H88 Doublet Stratotone, made for Alden’s, somewhere between 1958 and 1959.  To say that it is in Excellent Condition, is an obvious understatement.  This beauty is in almost new condition.  It is also one of the rarest Harmony made guitars on the market.  Harmony only made the Harmony branded Stratotone Doublet from 1955-57, and the same model, marketed as an Alden 9910, was apparently  only available from 1958-59. It has become a favorite of collectors and investors, but finding an example of the guitar is anything but slightly hammered condition is a rarity. With the exception of the period correct switch tip, this sweetheart is entirely original.

The DeArmond pickups positively snarl, and there isn’t a hint of noise in either of the stacked dual concentric pots (the black knob is volume and the cream knob is tone).  Beyond the pots, the Harmony H88 features a neck-through design, so the sustain is outrageous!  The body is small and light, but the scale length is still 25 1/4.” The action is a comfortable 3/32nds of an inch, both sides. And, while many of the examples you’ll find have either a black or a red painted finish, this one has the coveted gold sparkle!

The original tuners have been cleaned and lubricated and function perfectly. The neck is straight and the DeArmond pickups are, of course, magnificent. There have been a few touchups of black lacquer to the finish.  They blend in beautifully and are barely noticeable.

Please check the photographs carefully and zoom in for detail.  I’ve tried to capture this guitar from every angle.

This is an eye catching instrument with a distinctive 1950’s vibe and a sound to match. The only thing that is not perfect in this package is the original chipboard case, which is frankly, shot.

If you are building your own collection of great American made guitars, either to play, to display, or for investment, don’t miss this one! It is a remarkable time capsule of Chicago’s golden era of electric guitars.

This Harmony / Alden H88  is sold AS IS and is not returnable unless it arrives in a condition other than as described or photographed.

Price: $2500 + $125 shipping (lower 48 USA only)