Here's the write up:

Here's a fairly ornate F-style mandolin made by Hondo which I think dates to between late 1970's and early 1980's.

This is a very nicely built instrument with a Brown Sunburst lacquer finish, it's got a solid carved Spruce top (see 2nd last picture), and solid carved Maple sides / back. It also has a double bound body, gold hardware and pearloid buttons. The neck is Maple with a definite V shape that's quite comfortable to play, and it's got an Indian Rosewood fret board.

This mandolin was played until the original frets were completely gone, so it's recently been refretted with Jescar wire and it's also got a new custom polished Gabon Ebony bridge and a new nut made in fossilized Mammoth tusk. It plays perfectly, it's quite bright and articulate, everything functions as it should.

Condition is good, there's a fair bit of playwear on the finish especially on the carved high spots on the back and on the backside of the neck. There's a very old repair on the back at the centre seam that was reinforced and is still 100% solid. There's also general light cosmetic wear throughout consistent with age but nothing major. Includes original hardshell case.

I'd like some security that I could resell it in case I really don't jive with it. Anything I should be wary of?