Weissenborn Style 3 1926 (ca.) - Original finish & Custom Calton Case

Circa 1926 Weissenborn original Style 3 purchased from Ellen Harper at the Folk Music Center (FMC) in 2021. I was told this Weissenborn was formerly owned by Ben Harper and was a longtime mainstay at the FMC that would played from time-to-time by folks in the shop, including Ben and Joel Harper. See Images of Ben playing this Weissenborn with Alejandro Aranda while filming a segment for American Idol at the FMC. Also see image from an Instagram post of Joel playing this Weissenborn. 

As a long-time fan of Harper’s music and the work that the Folk Music Center does for the community, it has been an incredible honor to be the custodian of this amazing instrument. 

Details

This is an original Weissenborn Style 3 (Hourglass) Hawaiian guitar, built by the H. Weissenborn Company of Los Angeles California, circa 1926. It appears to be a transitional model between the two most refined periods of design - Ca. 1925 and 1927. It features all Koa wood, Spruce bracing and rope marquetry in Rosewood and Maple. This guitar appears to have a transitional finish with a shellac base. The hardware is all original. 

In 2022, Bill Asher installed a Seymour Duncan MagMic pickup and reglued an internal brace. See image of the guitar on Bill Asher’s workbench. 

In 2021, I worked with Calton Cases to build a case using the exact specifications of this Weisseborn. Not only does this case provide amazing protection, but it does an amazing job of regulating the humidity level. Living in the desert, in addition to a room humidifier, I typically use two Oasis case humidifiers (one near the headstock and one in the sound hole) that are filled on a weekly basis. Humidity levels are monitored electronically to ensure proper humidity. levels. This case does such a great job of regulating the humidity, it only requires on case humidifier. Of course, humidity levels will depend upon your specific household environment, but the average humidity level in our household when not using humidifiers is approximately 30 percent. 

In 2024 Tony Francis appraised this Weissenborn at $7,500. The appraisal noted, “This is a rare guitar in todays vintage market, and from the golden era of manufacture of which few, if any, would surpass it.” A copy of the appraisal will be shared upon serious inquiries 

This Weissenborn received a lot of care and attention in our home. I hope the next custodian will appreciate the instruments unique history and give it as much care and attention. 

Shipping: In addition to the Calton Case, I will pack this up like a vault for shipping. Shipping will be fully insured.

Local pick-up/ delivery available.