Question to the group. Several years ago I purchased an Ibanez 513 sunburst two point mando (or so I thought). I have kept the Ibanez on a stand as a "ready to practice" instrument and tend to play it more than my other 2 mandos (Martin and Breedlove) around the house. The Ibanez had no serial number, and the logo always looked a bit strange to me. Earlier today, I caught a glimpse of something on the head as the light just hit it right, some lettering that barely appeared under the finish. I deciphered "swood" and finally decided to lightly sand the finish away to find an inlaid Crestwood brandname under the Ibanez brand name. I know Crestwood makes very inexpensive mandos, but this mando has always played well, had a bright tone, and held its tune. I am wondering if anyone knows about older Crestwoods (1970s?). Were they made by Ibanez? Is there a connection? My discovery after several years of ownership was a strange moment for me. Guess you have to be careful shopping on ebay.
