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Double Bass Got a double bass... what is it?

T

tuuur

Dec 15, 2011
13
0
#1
I recently got a double bass. It's in a bit of a rough shape, but it looks quite old. There are no markings, or decals, or any info on who made this bass.

I have a some guesses and further info:
- guess it's prewar because of the tuners
- the grain runs around the edge of the top, so I guess it's carved
- it's a flatback. Back and sides are definitely different wood than the top, could be plywood

Here are a few pics (unfortunately a bit dark, cause lately I am only home when it's dark... :cool:)

6501859129_89a7b64c49_z.jpg


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I'd like to know a bit more about it, so any guesses on age and make are welcome!
 
#3
Looks like you have a beauty. It is a carved bass. can you post more closeup pics of scroll, endpin and neck joint ... and so on. Is the fingerboard and nut ebony? Looks a chocolatey colour. From here, it looks eastern european and yes it looks quite old ... i'd venture a guess - could be turn of the century-ish. But it could be more recent, and just taken a beating!
 
#4
Thanks both!

Indeed, the color is a neglected matted roughed dark brownish, and on the back some hints of red and gloss finish. The fingerboard is somewhat multicolored, maybe just dirty. The neck is dark as well and looks finished. How do I recognize ebony from other woods on a double bass?

Yes, I will post some more detail photos but that has to wait till the weekend, when I finally can see her by daylight...
 
#9
Neck and Fingerboard. The fingerboard turns out to be brownish rather than black. The black looks very grimey on the edges with the brown color.

6530107129_2dccd8b6af_z.jpg


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One of the previous owners put on some guiding stickers...

6530066753_c76c0bce5c_z.jpg


Heel joint:

6530069969_b98b06885f_z.jpg
 
#13
I have one that is very, very similar. Mine says, "made in Germany" inside. I had to remove the loose fingerboard and reattach it when I got it. On the back on the fingerboard it says (in backhand - perfect in a mirror) T Homer. I named the bass Homer T. I am pretty sure it is a real 4/4 based on what I've read. Anyway, I just wanted to post a reply to tell you that you might want to put a mirror behind the fingerboard extension and see if there are any clues there. Nice bass.
 

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