Well. Here’s a nice looking old guitar.
Here’s my analysis…
Harmony steel string
H162 model?, 000 shape ?, on the inside 2222H162
Requests
- Assessment
- Setup
- Strings
- Tuners
Top is laminate/ply spruce, cracked on outside veneer
Back and sides are plywood with ribbon mahogany
Guitar is probably from the 1960s
There is no adjustment on the neck.
Current action height is about 7/64 bass, 3/32 treb (estimated – e string missing)
Lowering the action (setup) would be possible, but not much (the neck has pulled up a bit, the top has bulged a bit) . Lowering the action by 1/128th (1/64 at the saddle) leaves only 1/64th “ of a saddle. The time involved would be 1 hour. The benefit would be small but perhaps noticeable. Cost $50
Strings. Any strings installed should be low tension. That would help with playability. For example: D’addario EJ 16 or EJ 26 Cost of strings and installation $25
Tuning machines https://www.stewmac.com/Hardware_and_Parts/Tuning_Machines/Solid_Peghead_Guitar_Tuning_Machines/Golden_Age_Restoration_Tuners_for_Solid_Peghead_Guitar_with_Scallop-end/Reviews/Page3.html#reviews $55 + shipping + installation Cost estimate $100
Other. The fingerboard has a divot under the low E string. Filling cost $50
If I do all of the above, I estimate $225 for all.
If I level and dress the frets, it will be another $100.
I looked on EBAY for value comparatives. Sold listings for this model over the last couple of months range from $125 to $150.
Recommendation: Unless this guitar has sentimental value, I cannot whole-heartedly recommend spending the money for all the things above. To get it playable I can change the tuning machines and strings for $125.
Alternative: Buy a new guitar… after a minute or two of checking here’s one. (I’m a dealer for this one, and this is about my cost. $175)
OK. That’s my analysis and some recommendation.
Steve Ganz, luthier
