Kalamazoo K-11

[Old Buffalo]

Hi Friends - its been quite awhile since I have posted anything. I'm hoping that there may be a couple of you that have knowledge of the Kalamazoos from the 30's. I have a K-11 that has the squared off (Flat topped) head stock as oppsed to the Roof-top headstock. Most of the images I see on line show the roof-top version. I guess my question is: does the head stock shape relate to the dating of these guitars? There is a FON # on the neck block that I can't make out too well. If anyone has any knowledge on these guitars I would appreciate anything you can tell me. I'm thinking about selling it and I want to be as accurate as possible when describing it.

Thanks -Old Buffalo

[bisco1]

Hi, Your guitar is most likely a KG-11, probably dating from 1933-1935. IIRC, the rooftop headstock started in 1936. Does the guitar have solid lining as opposed to kerfed linings? If so, my understanding is that it would likely be from the earlier years. Someone else may have more light to shed on the dating.I have owned a number of KG-11s, and might be interested in another if you decide to sell it.
Good luck, Bill

[Jim Owen]

I’ve often wondered if there was any rhyme or reason. Have you tried the magnet trick to see if there’s a steel bar in it?

[Old Buffalo]

Thanks, Bill. Dating any Gibson made instrument sems to always be an elusive endeavor.
The lining is kerfed in this guitar and the FON is there, but I cant be sure of what it is; looks like 138A (maybe). I guess in the long run it doesn't matter all that much, but, like I said, I want to give as accurate a description as possible.
I havent made up my mind about selling it yet, but if I do, I'll let you know. It's a sweet playing old guitar.
Thanks again - Old Buffalo

[Old Buffalo]

Thanks Jim. No steel bar but the neck is nice and true.
Good looking Larrivee you have for sale. I'd like it for myself, but my wife and I are not always. of the same mind in regards to guitar aquisitions.
Old Buffalo

[Jim Owen]

Originally Posted by Old Buffalo

Thanks Jim. No steel bar but the neck is nice and true.
Good looking Larrivee you have for sale. I'd like it for myself, but my wife and I are not always. of the same mind in regards to guitar aquisitions.
Old Buffalo

Thanks. My wife has told me that she’s starting to trip over cases, so I’m taking the hint.

[zombywoof]

If the guitar has an "A" suffix FON it would date it to 1935. I always really liked the first KG-11s from 1933 with the rope binding around the soundhole. Brought to mind the Montgomery Ward Carson Robinson.

[blindboyjimi]

I believe the flat headstock was only 1933 and 1934. I’ve had 4 KG-11s and 3 KG-14s in various forms. I have this Senior from 1933 and a Waterloo WL-12.