Pacheco & Klemm Style 5 Banjo Ukulele (c.1926)

This one-of-a-kind banjo uke is a marvel of instrument construction from the dawn of the golden era.

Jospeh Pacheco, who originally emigrated from South America in 1917, and set up shop not far from us in Malden, Massachusetts, was responsible for a number of innovative, albeit niche, banjo construction tactics in the early 1920's. His company was acquired by Liberty Musical Instrument Co. in 1926, at which point he moved to Chicago and started the short-lived "Pacheco & Klemm" banner. With the banjo-ukulele still in its boom era, Pacheco & Klemm established a remarkably full product slate of the instruments; and this "Style 5" was their top-of-the-line offering (it's the only one we've ever seen). This instrument is in exceptionally clean condition for its age; and it functions perfectly, requiring no setup work at this time. The ornately painted marquetry and wood inlays on the resonator are gorgeously executed. The back of the neck shows signs of old overspray, which is expertly applied (and at this point looks virtually indistinguishable from an entirely original finish). It's also possible the rim elements and flange have been re-plated. But at this point, we're not sure any of that even matters. This one-of-a-kind banjo uke is a marvel of instrument construction from the dawn of the golden era; and it would certainly please any player or collector looking for an instrument with tone and pedigree befit for our highest marks. Priced with its original hardshell case.

(24.5" total length; 10 1/4" rim; 3 1/2" depth)