1991 Hamer Virtuoso

1991 Hamer Virtuoso, although Jim O'Connor's signature is from 1992. There are around 30 of these made, and 4-5 were finished by artist Jim O'Connor. The fretboard has been cleaned and frets dressed. Most of the dirt was removed and the raw maple was sealed with Tru-Oil, the tint of which remarkably matched (or at least really, really close) the original finish that had long ago worn through in heavy play areas. No neck issues; I play it with 10-46 strings and set the string action at 2/64" even at the 12th fret for the E string, gradually rising to 2.5~3/64th" on the bass side. Note that if you change string gauges or even brands, the neck takes a week to settle in - it's a very long and thin neck!

I did drill for a Dunlop flushmount straplock. There is a finish ding on the heel but no other signifiant flaws in the finish.

Hardware: The electronics (what little there is) is 100% original. The tuners were replaced with Sperzels, custom ordered to all be the shortest post length. This allows the break angle over the nut to supercede what you can get with a 50's era string tree. All the hardware is new, purchased two years ago. The screws to lock the strings as well as the saddle inserts are titanium. Titanium does have a particular tonal sound - when extensively used, some will like it and other won't. But just try to strip a titanium bolt. The original Schallers have loosened and stripped over the years. And of course, it is now properly intonated as the bridge has a Floyd Rose Hollow Point intonation system. It also has an oversized tungsten sustain block.

If you've a hankering for a Virt, keep in mind that the fingerboard is fully scalloped. It will take time to relearn. The scale length is 26'25" - virtually identical to the scale length of a cello. If you have short fingers this guitar will not be that easy to play.

I am the original owner. It hasn't been an easy decision to put this up for sale.

- Includes OHSC and the original (not so functional) hardware.

- If you're thinking of a partial trade, PM me. It better be damned unusual!