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OOO
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Brazilian Rosewood has been the traditional wood-of-choice for the finest
musical instruments in the world for hundreds of years. I was recently able to acquire some
of this now rare stock, and set out to build an instrument which, even
though built with modern methods, would honor its past.
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This is my one hundredth instrument. It is a copy of a 1928 Martin 12-fret,
size OOO which came in for restoration a couple of years ago. During
restoration, I was able to "candle" the exact bracing pattern
and brace sizes.
Every detail was copied to the Nth degree, with the exception of
changing the nut width to 1-3/4 inches, for better playability.
The fingerboard and classic pyramid bridge are made of ebony. The nut
and saddle are fossilized ivory
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This photo illustrates the beautiful "spiderwebbing"
and sapwood that makes Brazilian so desirable when bookmatched. |
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The select green abalone which borders the soundhole, and the
spectacular iridescent Adirondack spruce top, add a bit of sparkle to this guitar.
Adirondack spruce was used exclusively on pre-war Martins, until scarcity
forced the selection of other woods. |
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Here's another view of the beautiful grain pattern, and the flame maple
body binding. Neck carving detail can also be seen. |
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This rear headstock shot shows the select Honduras mahogany neckwood,
and the complex carving of the Martin "A" volute.
Also shown are the new Waverly precision strap tuners, for accurate
tuning capability.
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Here is a detail of the green abalone inlaid rosette,
and Adirondack spruce top. |
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