I wouldn't pay that much money for an instrument with those flaws. I think an instrument in that price range should be practically flawless in craftsmanship---definitely shouldn't have any glue showing and/or sharp frets. All of my ukes are a lot older than 8 months (and a lot cheaper); I've lived here all my life and none of them have those symptoms. Especially being in that shop it leads me to suspect that he may be an artist creating a pretty work of art as opposed to an established luthier creating a great instrument.
That being said, the materials look really high quality and I think $1,800 would be a very reasonable price if it sounded great and didn't have those physical flaws.
As others have mentioned, I would focus on the more established makers if you're looking for a good instrument. I personally am a big fan of KoAloha here in Hawaii. That's what I chose after trying all of the best brands here (Kamaka, Kanilea, Ko'olau as well as Collings and Martin).
Last edited by Kalani; 07-12-2017 at 05:37 PM.
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