This Weymann Style 1, 19-fret tenor banjo showcases several key Weymann features. First, the resonator is press-fit, and doesn’t use screws to attach; this is to reduce rattling. The Weymann Patented Tone Resonator for the Orchestra Banjo Style A is made with a curve instead of the usual sharp corner which throws the sound waves forward greatly increasing the carrying power for the player. It is fastened to the rim by felt-covered spring clamps which eliminate objectionable vibrations found in screw or metal catch fastenings found on other banjos.
The outer edge of the resonator is rounded, which helps project the sound. The ‘Megaphonic’ rim comprises ten laminated layers with a megaphonic_draftconical interior, and all the brackets pass through it so the inner and outer surfaces are smooth. All brackets are encased and countersunk so the outer surface is perfectly smooth. The neck and the distance between the fingerboard and strings are fully adjustable to suit the player through the combination neck brace and adjuster via a simple turn of the nut in the center of the brace. The neck is made from two pieces of laminated mahogany, that have been shaded dark with a bound ebony fingerboard, inlaid with ornate pearl pieces. The headstock overlay carries a “Weymann” logo of inlaid pearl letters with an elaborate floral design and mounts the company’s patented recessed geared tuning pegs.
The rim is mahogany, and the upper edge and bottom are bound with rosewood. There is a natural rosewood armrest mounted to the hoop, another stylish unique Weymann feature. The top is inlaid with a non-tarnishable silver flash compound. It has a notched hoop, twenty brackets, and all metal parts are nickel-plated. The neck is joined mahogany, reinforced with ebony veneer through the center, and additional reinforcement of wood veneer between the neck and the fingerboard. The heel is capped with rosewood.
The fingerboard is rosewood with beautiful inlaid pearl positions; ivory celluloid bound edge with position dots on the side of the neck.
The Weymann Style 1 Orchestra Model is a well-built instrument, with mahogany for the resonator, neck, and rim, an ebony fingerboard and head plate, and an 11-inch head. In original condition, it plays well and has a distinctive, vintage tone. All original and complete, it was recently set up with a 5 Star Remo head and new strings, so it sounds and plays great. The banjo comes with its original Weymann hardshell case with plush blue lining.
A very special thanks to purebanjo.com and their description of this 100-year-old banjo!
