Lot #43: Gretsch Clarophone Banjolele 1920's

Here we have a 1920's Gretsch Clarophone Banjolele. This banjolele is all original with the exception of a new maple bridge and 1 flat clip. The banjolele skin has the Sigma Chi fraternity symbol written on it plus what appears to be a number of fraternity brothers who signed the skin. The overall condition of the instrument is very good and it would make an excellent restoration project. The frets are in amazing condition however the end of the fret wires are sharp and need to be filed. The non original maple bridge is a good fit for this instrument - all maple construction and I'm sure it can be adjusted to get the string height to the best height possible. The string holder is marked Bell Brand, Patented, N.M.S. Co Tuners in excellent condition. Will need new strings. A great instrument and I'm sure it will be amazing once restored. Overall length is 20.5" (53 cm) Resonator diameter 7.25" (18 cm) Resonator depth 2.5" (6 cm) Neck length 13.5" (34 cm) Pickup category timeslot {B}