1928 Juzek bass

[utgl331]

I bought this bass from an old retired gentleman 20 years ago who had it in his attic for many years after playing with it in a bluegrass band in central Wisconsin. It's been sitting in my basement since. The label inside has John Juzek ,violin maker in Prague,on it with the date 1928. It is not in perfect condition by any means, but it is playable. The back appears to have been repaired as you can tell by the picture. I could only attach 2 pictures, otherwise I would have liked to attach a picture of the label inside. I'm curious if anyone has any idea on the value? Thanks.

[reedo35]

Good Golly, what did they do to the back?!!
A vintage Juzek in good condition can go from 4K to 8K depending.

[tomshepp]

I think most here would suggest taking it to a respected luthier. He/she should be able to evaluate your bass for you.

That said, I think attics and basements are not the best place to keep an instrument.

[MR PC]

Originally Posted by reedo35

Good Golly, what did they do to the back?!!

Looks like the same glue that was used to repair the cracks on the front. If the back has to come off for the repair work, it might be a great opportunity to tweak with the rest of the innards. In that case I would think taking it to a bass specialist luthier would be the best idea. Worth sinking some $$$$$ into for a player.

OTH, If you are looking to get some cash out of this, I wouldn't expect to see alot considering that crack/separation ......... good luck!

[Eric Hochberg]

The value in its present state depends on how much it will cost to fix up, and if that is an open crack in the back, it will cost a fair amount (into the $1000s) even if that is the only thing wrong with it. In pristine condition, and if they sound great, Juzeks can get up into the mid teens. There's one on basscellar.com now in that price range. It also depends on where you are located.

There is a ton of Juzek info if you do a search.

[utgl331]

Thanks everyone for the informative comments. Greatly appreciated. FYI..the crack in the back isn't open but nonetheless is a crack, and I too wonder what the person was thinking when they messed with the back. I received the bass that way. Thanks again for the feedback everyone.

[Mark Perna]

I have a '28 Juzek. It is in terrific shape and plays and sounds great though. I paid about 12k for it 3 years ago.

mark

[mrpackerguy]

Join as a supporting member like your bro and you can post more pictures me thinks