(SOLVED) Is this a Kamaka HF-3 or HF-4?

[ukeclass]

I’m bidding on this specific instrument, and I can’t tell if this is either a tenor or baritone model. I’m not saying where because I don’t wanna get outbid

Factors that make me guess one way or another:

1. Tenors have 18 frets, so it should be a tenor.
2. It was/is strung with two low wound strings, which is consistent with standard baritone tuning, however two low wound strings on tenor is not unheard of nowadays. However, I’m not sure if baritones from the early 2000s had 18 frets or not.

So in my mind, its most likely a tenor, but there’s a chance it could in fact be a baritone too.
Take a look at the pics and let me know what you think!

 

[rainbow21]

I believe the scale length defines the difference. If 17 to 18 inches from nut to bridge, then it is a tenor. If 19 inches, then it would be a baritone.

Going to TUS, the Kamaka baritones have 19 frets and the tenors have 18.

BTW, my concert came with and still has two wound strings (G & C). Same with many tenors.

 

[ukeclass]

Unfortunately it’s hard to tell length in a picture, sadly. I might find out, might not!

 

[Kenn2018]

My 2017 HF-3 has a white (Ivoroid) fret dot at the 15th fret. It has 18 frets.
The tuners are chrome with Snakewood buttons.
To me, the waist looks a little more pinched than the one in your photo. But that may be lens distortion.
Mine is s/n 171791 if that helps.

 

[jim275]

I found a 2006 baritone that sold on Reverb. It had 19 total frets. I think you are looking at a Tenor.

https://reverb.com/item/74845969-kamaka-ukulele-baritone-2000-s-gloss?show_sold=true

 

[ukeclass]

Thanks, I appreciate it!!

 

[DaddyToge]

Thanks, I appreciate it!!

So did you win it?

 

[ukeclass]

Sadly no, but in hindsight, I don’t really need two Kamaka tenors…

 

[DaddyToge]

Sadly no, but in hindsight, I don’t really need two Kamaka tenors…

Gotcha…..

 

[Patty]

Sadly no, but in hindsight, I don’t really need two Kamaka tenors…

Your herd of Kamakas is impressive—but no Kamaka pineapple?

 

[ukeclass]

I bought a pineapple just recently at GC, but I am returning it. $800 is a good price, but would expect no cracks. Believe me, I had hoped to keep it as it played well, but the small cracks in a newer instrument is a red flag, vintage instruments, like my HF-1D is a different exception.