Calace

Of the venerable 19th-century firms, only Calace survives to this day; their bottom-end bowl (Model 24) goes (or rather went, last time I checked) for some 600 euros, i.e. roughly those $800 you intend to spend.

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

As you say, in light of the catastrophic economic circumstances we find ourselves in right now, you may be able to find a VERY nice, older Calace selling for not terribly much money.

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

Of the venerable 19th-century firms, only Calace survives to this day; their bottom-end bowl (Model 24) goes (or rather went, last time I checked) for some 600 euros, i.e. roughly those $800 you intend to spend.

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

So if you wanted to buy from the Calace factory you could have them ship to you (even if you picked it out on the spot).

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

I sold it after I acquired my Calace, when it had fallen into disuse and * guilt* neglect.

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

Luigi Salsedo was one of the best of the "second tier" Italian makers, just outside the "big three" of Embergher, Calace and Vinaccia.

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

Here is a link to the Calace site with a nice family history, if you haven't visited there yet:

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

Greek Bowlback - decent but I want an Embergher - or Calace or ....

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

Calace is one of the preeminent names in Italian mandolin (both as a composer and as a builder.)

Mandolin Cafe News 2009

The Korean case was way too small and the Eastman was on the tight side since my Pandini is larger than standard Calace mandolins.

Mandolin Cafe News 2009