The North American Guitar
Published on 2011-07-27 10:50:08
Quintessentially Music caught up with Michael Watts of The North American Guitar at their recent event at Abbey Road studios,
An award-winning guitar player and authority on the modern, custom instrument, and a conduit between client and guitar builder (luthier), he affords us a unique insight into today’s guitar market and explains how a custom, hand-made instrument is the best investment a guitarist of any level could make.
Investing in a custom guitar by Michael Watts of The North American Guitar
Guitars are extremely desirable creations and with collectors and players alike now focusing on the bespoke build rather than the vintage market (think les Pauls, 60 year-old Stratocasters and Telecasters) there has never been a better time to invest in a modern instrument.
The guitars of the 20th century were mass-produced commodities in contrast to the hand-built tradition of the classical instrument. However, the past thirty years or so have seen a turn away from the “cookie-cutter”, production line instrument, with guitarists now that much more discerning in their tastes. With this trend comes a closer relationship with the buyer, helping them to find that perfect, one-of-a-kind inspirational instrument.
Obviously people collect guitars, not only because of their visual beauty but also for their sound and versatility. And it is my opinion (born of many years of personal experience as a player, collector and dealer) that modern luthier-built guitars are in many cases greatly superior to those being pumped out of the big name factories. It is the difference between “dining” at a fast food joint and a meal at Mosimann’s. The attention to detail, the human touch and experience, all of these things elevate the modern guitar to new heights.
And that’s inspiring.
Let’s face it, playing a truly great guitar is a wonderful feeling - it’s difficult to put the thing down! It’s also extremely rewarding in that you improve as a player without even noticing it. A truly responsive instrument will guide you, inspire you and teach you.
Our clients at North American Guitar range from vintage collectors looking for unique pieces to complement what they already have to novice guitarists who want to start with the very best instrument possible. Whatever the circumstances we use our experience to ensure that they are matched with a builder whose work will bring pleasure and inspiration for years to come. We have a deliberately small roster of talent which includes some of the best guitar builders (electric, acoustic, resonators and archtops) in the world including Michael Greenfield, Brent McElroy, Jason Kostal Michael Lewis (Fine Resophonics) and Sam Walker (Wirebird Guitars). Between them these guys have made instruments for the likes of Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, George Harrison and other rock gods of the 21st century.
To enquire about having your very own custom-built guitar, please contact info@quintessentiallymusic.com now to get in touch with our consultant.
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