William Gilbert Spruce Indian Rosewood 650

William Gilbert took over the building of Gilbert guitars in 1991, after an exacting apprenticeship with his father John Gilbert who had established a reputation as one of the foremost luthiers in Canada over his 40 year career.  During his time John introduced innovations such as Gilbert tuners and the Gilbert bridge which has individual saddle elements for each string and contoured bridge wings to lower the vibrating mass of the soundboard and enhance response.  William now produces guitars of similar or superior build and sound quality as his father, which was a key factor of taking on the business.  His philosophy is to focus on the sound and playability of an instrument, striving to build one which he would want to own himself.  As he only builds one guitar at a t time to very high standards, his annual output is limited to just a few guitars.

The guitar is a fine example of William's work.  Built in 2000 it features the traditional Gilbert bridge with steel posts and Abalone inserts on the Gilbert tuners.  The high quality Spruce top combines with beautifully book-matched Indian Rosewood back and sides and is set off by an elegant yet understated rosette.  The finish is thin lacquer.  Sound quality is as one would expect from this standard of instrument with very clear trebles, strong basses and excellent balance between the two.  It is a high class instrument in very good condition which will meet the needs of the most demanding player.

Price £4,950