Help identifying my Model B

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jordanzzz
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Help identifying my Model B

Post by jordanzzz »

Hi All,

I'm new to the board and I hope this is the right place. I'd like to identify and get some advice on the value of what my research has led me to believe is a 1935-1937 Model B Lap Steel.

The serial # or at least what I think is the serial is crudely stamped on the top of the head stock as C718.

It has the 1 1/2" horseshoe magnet pickup. "PAT PEND" on the pickup mounting flange which I understand as mid 1937 or before. The single volume pot. But I'll let the pictures do the talking.

I'd love to tell you I picked this up at a pawn shop for $20, but it was actually handed down to me from my father so I'm at least positive that this is the real deal.

Much appreciation in advance for any help from a fellow Rick lover. Being a lefty that plays right handed guitars, my first guitar was a custom from the factory. Left handed 12 string electric with the strings set up right handed. Complete with the upside down R on the bridge. I get a lot of confused looks. :D

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libratune
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Re: Help identifying my Model B

Post by libratune »

Welcome to the Forum! I am not an expert on lapsteels, but I have seen a fair number of photos of them and have a good reference source for dating. Yours appears to be a 1935-36 model, due to the one-control knob feature. Here is the guide I go by for the "B" models:

1935 Model B introduction specs:
Bakelite body and neck, horseshoe pickup, magnet 1 1/2" wide, knurled adjustment nuts on pickup, 1 octagonal knob on treble side, strings anchor thru body, 5 decorative chrome plates, bolt-on neck with integral molded frets. Can have silver or gold plated hardware (plates).
1937 Model B specs:
Chicken-head Pointer knob on treble side, rounded knob on bass side.
1938 Model B specs:
two round knobs with arrows, frets outlined in white, sometimes have plastic control plates.
1939 Model B specs:
Knobs on same side.

As far as value, watch the auctions on ebay. The pre-war "B" lapsteels are quite popular and command a good premium. Average prices appear to be in the $800 area. As yours appears to be in very nice shape with original case, maybe more.

Good luck!
jordanzzz
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Re: Help identifying my Model B

Post by jordanzzz »

Thanks!
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jdogric12
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Re: Help identifying my Model B

Post by jdogric12 »

This is neat, but I'd really like to see your LH/RHS!!! Rare option for sure!
sashasuman
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Re: Help identifying my Model B

Post by sashasuman »

Does anyone out there know the pitch of the tuning peg screws, or where I can find one? This is NOT one of the screws which mount the assembly to the headstock, rather the screw which threads into the peg itself.
sasha
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