Otto Rubner, Markneukirchen c.1930 (SOLD)
After careful research, we conclude that this bass is the work of Otto Rubner c.1930 (b.1885-d.1963, son, pupil and successor to Joseph Rubner b.1864-d.1927).
Having seen several Rubner and Meyer basses pictured and some in person, the tuners in the reverse order is the first thing that came to mind for Meyer. Then the purfling around the top but not the back was another clue pointing Rubner and not Meyer. Meyer basses made later have the upper top shaped more squarely by the neck block but the earliest ones go around like the French Cello model Double Basses. In separate messages back and forth with the current Bass Master in both the Meyer and Rubner shops (Ackert), we have concluded that this IS a Rubner and not a Meyer. 'Ackert sent me pictures of two old Rubner basses he has that have the same narrow outer linings measuring only 7-8mm wide. A feature not seen on Meyer or other makers from Saxony.
About 30 years ago, this bass was restored and the back button was replaced with a graft from a neck break. The Luthier restoring the bass also over varnished the bass to the current and beautifully applied deep wine-red color. Regardless, the bass is in great shape and hasn't been opened since that restoration.
The sound is fairly deep, rich and powerful sounding. Having played beside is in the hands of the previous owner for about a decade, I can attest to its sound. When it was restored decades ago, the neck was set way too shallow (possibly the original over-stand), making it difficult to play in thumb position without some back strain.
Recent new neck grafted, Fingerboard, Bridge, End-pin unit and new chromatic C-Extension. (new pictures below)
(SOLD)
Measurements:
String Length; 41 1/2" (with new graft)
Top/Back Length; 44" top, 44 1/2" back
Upper Bout; 19 1/2"
Middle Bout; 14 1/4"
Lower Bout; 26"
Ribs; 7 3/4" (8 1/4" w/T&B), 6 1/8" at Neck (6 5/8" w/T&B)
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Top; spruce
Back and Ribs; highly flamed maple.
Neck/Scroll; figured maple with neck graft
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