Tricone Serial Number Question

[jromano23]

I recently came across 0318 which is a style 3 with inlays that resemble a style 28 Martin (Marc Schoenberger said they are original as well as side dot markers). In looking at Mark Makin’s book, it looks like the earliest style 3 listed. Has anyone come across an earlier one? I’m wondering if the finger board inlays are the result of trying something before going to the diamonds. Any thoughts are much appreciated.

[jromano23]

[bonzo]

Hi jro. If you can get it over to me I'm happy to look into it's history for a few months. Lol!
What a beautiful guitar.

Best wishes to you all, John

[Mark Makin]

Hi jro, - At the moment, I see no reason to disagree with your thoughts concerning this Style 3. It is certainly the earliest round neck that we’ve seen and the snowflake markers do indicate a “custom” element. I’ve spoken with Marc S and it does seem to be a ‘factory’ build although I do find it odd to see snowflake (Martin-type) markers on a National.
In the earliest days of the National production, triplates were only available in plain or engraved (style 2) form. This was the only choice up to around Number 500 (sq nk). Occasionally a few random ‘tests’ were done of exotic lavish patterns. 146 was the first Style 4 and a few others with an ‘acanthus’ pattern were produced. None of these instruments were considered as regular styles and they all have the word ‘deluxe’ scratched inside.
The first (we assume) square neck Style 3 has been found. It is a separate fronds early version like yours and is numbered 390. It is more lavish in that the engraving includes a pair of lovebirds and various butterflies resting on the lily of the valley leaves. In the middle of each side waist engraving is a large letter ‘E’. We believe this to represent ‘Elizabeth’ Dopyera - Johns wife, who is credited with the design of the Style 3. Remember that there were many more square necks produced than round necks so higher serial numbers were reached at an earlier date than round necks. 390 and 0318 would have been made at approximately the same date - around Feb/Mar 1928. The Style 3 , of course, was the last pattern to go into production.

[jromano23]

Thanks, Mark. I really appreciate it.

[jromano23]

www.google.com/amp/s/www.vintageguitar.com/26786/national-style-3-hawaiian/amp/

Some additional info and pics of 390 are in this article.