Brand: Manuel Rodriguez Sr
Instrument Categories: Classical and Flamenco, Guitars
Here is a wonderful rarity – a Manuel Rodriguez Sr. Classical guitar, built during 1969 in Los Angeles of Spruce, Brazilian Rosewood and flamed Mahogany. Its label identifies it as Manuel Rodriguez Luthier, de Madrid Espana Los Angeles 1969 No. 308 and is signed by the builder. The interior of the top, to the bass side of the soundhole reinforcement, has a Manuel Rodriguez ink stamp. The fingerboard edge also has three position markers, at positions 5, 7 and 9.
Manuel Rodriguez Sr. was born in Madrid in 1926 and began learning guitar building from his father, and both worked for Jose Ramirez II. Manuel opened his own shop in 1955, but in 1959 moved to Los Angeles, where this guitar, #308, was built. In 1973 he returned to Madrid and died in 2008. While in Los Angeles, he worked with engineers at UCLA researching elements of guitar construction.
Some of these research efforts could well have resulted in the bridge used here. It is unique to these guitars, with six individual adjustable saddles; the special tool for this task is included. The practical result is that this guitar is in tune with itself to an unusual degree.
This guitar features a Sitka Spruce top, Brazilian Rosewood for the back, sides and bridge, a flamed Mahogany neck, with Ebony for the fingerboard. The back linings are solid the top linings are kerfed. It has play wear expected for a well-treated, 53 year old instrument, and a full, well-developed voice.
Sold with its hard case.
- Model: Classical Guitar
- Year: 1969
- Finish Natural
- Class: Vintage
- Serial Number: 308, signed and dated to 1969 at Los Angeles CA.
- Country of Origin: USA
- Condition: Good
- Date Posted: 02/11/2022
- Consignment Item
- Including original Hard case
- Instrument Weight: 3.74lbs 1.7kg
- Scale Length: 26.063in 662mm
- Nut Width: 2.077in 52.75mm
