Harmonica, tremolo double, C, G
Maker
Matthias Hohner, Inc.
Date1954 ca.
Place MadeTrossingen, Germany, Europe
ModelEcho Elite No. 8333
Serial No.None
SignedDie-cut from metal casing: HOHNERMarkingsStamped below company name: FABRIQUE EN ALLEMAGNE / MADE IN GERMANY
DescriptionDouble harmonica. Metal casings finished in red enamel and nickel plate, wooden comb painted light blue. 16 double holes per side (32 holes total), each compartment housing 1 reed, 2 reeds per hole. 4 brass plates with 16 brass reeds each (32 reeds per harmonica, 64 reeds total). The blow and draw notes alternate sides.
The Echo Elite harmonica resembles a radio case of the 1950's with it's streamlined art-deco nickeled covers, red enameled covers and red and blue enameled wood. It was advertised in catalogs as "Ultra Modernistic." Its designer, John Vassos, was renowned for his sleek, modernist approach to everyday products like radios and stoves. The arced form of Echo Elite is both visually striking and ergonomic — it makes the instrument easy to hold and fit neatly into the curve of the mouth.
DimensionsLength: 144.3 mm
Height: 25 mm
Width: 58.4 mm
ProvenanceAlan G. Bates Collection, Hockessin, Delaware, 2000.
Credit LineAlan G. Bates Collection, 2000
Object number07519
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