Details of the various models
I mainly make four models of guitar as shown in the table below.
These can also be made left-handed to special order.
Type |
lower bout |
waist |
upper bout |
scale length |
1. Modern |
36.0cm |
24.0cm |
28.0cm |
650mm |
2. Torres |
35.2cm |
22.5cm |
26.5cm |
650mm |
3. Torres small |
29.6cm |
18.0cm |
22.5cm |
635mm |
4. Recquinto |
29.6cm |
Dimensions
depend on the scale length required.
Customer to specify scale length and strings to be used. You may need to supply strings when ordering the instrument. |
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1. Modern ~ The largest is still probably below average in size and is my own outline for a slightly larger and more modern appearance. I have made this model in a cutaway design. Fits Hiscox GCLM
2. Torres ~ The middle one is an outline copy of Torres’ FE 19. Near to the optimum size in my opinion. Fits Hiscox GCLS
3.
Torres small ~ The smallest is an outline copy of Torres’ FE 18.
Lower bout width is 29.5cm.
The
Torres small guitar may look a novelty but is an entirely serious concert
instrument especially for ensemble playing where its sound will carry
along with a larger guitar while remaining distinct. But you don't have
to take my word for it ~ a simple click <here>
will take you to Ikuo Hasegawa's unsolicited testimonial. I can get a
custom built case made for this model ~ currently £225.
4. This model can be supplied as a recquinto ~ specify scale length and intended strings. A custom built case can also be supplied for this model.
Click on the picture to visit
the thumbnailed gallery
The Aranjuez model
In November 2000 a guitarmakers contest was organised to commemorate the centenary of the birth of the Joaquin Rodrigo. This was to be in Aranjuez. I applied for a place and prepared a special guitar with Rio Rosewood back and sides with decoration specially cut from a piece of rippled and flamed Jarrah. The neck was spliced around a centre of Jarrah which also formed the heel cap, bindings and head fascia. I carved a relief into the head through the fascia and contrast interleaved veneers. I shaped the sides of the head to match the machine head backplates. In sound as well as decoration I pulled out all the stops.
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The winner was the son of Madrid’s most famous luthier ~ Manuel Contreras. No other placings were announced. I did get to meet Simon Ambridge and spoke with the father and son luthiers Rodriguez. I was also approached by a Japanese guitar importer who is now ordering my instruments. The actual guitar sold almost immediately but I could make you another one. The cost would be in the region of £3,000.00 for this full specification.
Future designs
Actually, I have a couple of other designs I’d like to try. A shape I have here that is 33cm across would make a lovely guitar if someone wanted to commission it. More radically, I have ideas for a cutaway design which would allow thumb in neck playing up to position 16. I see the possibility of building this as a "Reinhardt" - any interest?