Details of the various models
I mainly make five 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. Short Scale |
35.5cm |
22cm |
26cm |
600mm |
5. 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. |
||
1. Although the largest, the Modern 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. The Torres is an outline copy of Torres’ FE 19. Near to the optimum size in my opinion. Fits Hiscox GCLS
3. Torres small ~ This
is an outline copy of Torres’ FE 18. Lower bout width is 29.5cm.
It may look like 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.
4. Ideal for
those with smaller hands but retaining the powerful projection of all
my guitars. Pictures of an example of this model can be found in the Gallery ~ second row from the bottom of
the page.
5. This model can be supplied as a recquinto ~ specify scale length and intended strings.
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.
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. 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 and I have ideas for a cutaway design which would allow thumb in neck playing up to position 16. Since originally writing this I have been fortunate enough to secure commissions for, and have constructed, both of these types and the results can now be seen in the new GALLERY.