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The late Bill Bussmann of New Mexico, maker of Old Wave Mandolins, enjoyed a reputation as a first-rate luthier. He's remembered not only for the quality of his work, but for using Southwestern-sourced woods and other materials, and for a quirky sense of fun that shines through in some of his more unusual instruments.
This A-style octave mandolin, serial #57, was built in 1994. It's a bit odd in that it features a guitar-style pin bridge. I haven't seen a lot of Bussmann octaves, but this is the only one I've come across with that feature. The top is spruce and the back is an eye-catching piece of bookmatched flame maple. Flame maple headplate with inlaid Old Wave logo in mother of pearl. Maple neck; fretboard and bridge may be ebony or ziricote. Top and back are bound with a light brown wood that might be mesquite. 20 frets; comfortable 21 3/4" scale length; adjustable truss rod. Blond finish is simply gorgeous. A few scratches and some pickwear around the soundhole, but in really good condition otherwise. Tremendous, earthshaking deep tone. Gig bag included. There aren't many Bussmann/Old Wave octaves about, and due to the luthier's recent death there won't be any more. 48-hour approval period.
