Vintage Fr. Hotz "Knittlinger" octave harmonica

Updated August 6, 2026

with its original box, dating from around the late 19th century to the early 1900s.Key Details & HistoryThe Manufacturer: Friedrich Hotz founded one of the world's earliest harmonica factories in Knittlingen, Germany in 1828. The company was a major competitor to Hohner until Hohner bought out the Hotz factory in 1906. Hohner continued producing under the Hotz name for several years afterward.The Design: The cover plate is stamped with the key "C", along with text reading "Extra Metall Stimmen" (Extra Metal Reeds/Voices) and detailed commemorative medal engravings from international exhibitions.The Style: The term "Knittlinger" refers to a traditional German style of double-reed octave harmonica construction pioneered in the region, known for producing a rich, accordion-like tone.The Box Warning: The text on the vintage cardboard box reads: "Mit dieser etiquette und familienwappen sind einzig echte Knittlinger... " It serves as a stern authenticity warning to consumers, stating that any other harmonicas using similar markings are imitations and cannot compare to their unique quality.

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