Could This Be A Jones Concertina?

[David Aumann]

Here's a 38-key anglo made to look a bit like a Jeffries. It's 6.25" across the flats, so a little larger than Jeffries. The fretwork is like Jeffries but a bit coarser in execution. The layout of the buttons, levers and reedpan are the same as Jeffries, except that a few reeds are mortised into the reedpan instead of being screwed on. There's no serial number, but possibly a batch number and no maker's name. The most distinguishing features are (1) the air button, where an s-shaped piece of wire presses on a spring-loaded trapdoor and (2) the riveted action, which looks like a Jones action to my untrained eye. Any thoughts?

[Greg Jowaisas]

I'd vote for Jones for many of your mentioned reasons:

 

Pivots and action arms

Trap door air valve

Most of the clamp screws (perhaps a few reeds from another maker?)

Large buttons

 

David, was there a stamped (into wood) serial #?

 

Looks like a very nice instrument.

 

Greg

[David Aumann]

Hello Greg,

Nope, no stamped-in serial number, which is a reason for doubting that it's Jones. On the inside of the action boards there is a (presumably) batch number; L 11 and R 11. No other clues, I'm afraid.

Cheers, David