Mark Campellone Special 17" Archtop DeArmond Rhythm Chief 1100

1996 Mark Campellone Special Quilt DeArmond RC1100

Offered for sale is a Mark Campellone Special 17" from 1996, and special it is. Aside from the vibe, tone, and playability the builder has become known for, this one in particular is notable for the figuring in the woods used, the vintage DeArmond Rhythm Chief 1100, and a slim neck.

Specs / Measurements

• 1996
• Spruce / Quilted Maple
• ~1.75” / 44.5mm nut
• ~25.5” / 647.7mm string length
• ~17” lower bout
• Vintage DeArmond Rhythm Chief 1100 pickup
• Form-fit deluxe hard/soft lightweight case.

Condition / Setup Notes

There is a good amount of what I would call age apparent (it was made in 1996 after all), but not necessarily as much in the way of marks, dings, or scratches (though you will find them). For example there is finish checking, most prominent on the back. There are areas of rough or sinking finish along seams. Tarnishing of hardware, finish missing around some tuner bushings, lines in the neck binding from fret tangs. Overall there is a patina to it, which I find nice as it shows that it's really been played in its lifetime. The label has detached, but will be included. The string path is looking great. The guitar has been refretted in the past, and the frets are dressed nicely with no wear. It plays easily, with a string height from about 5/64” - 4/64” from bass to treble, and just a touch of relief in the neck.

***

Just a beautiful guitar. The sound as a carved acoustic instrument is very nice, and the vintage RC1100 is always a treat to hear. I just love the figuring in this quilted maple too. Pieces of this width and thickness, must now be harder to find.

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(For direct sales, international shipping is available and no sales tax is charged outside of NY)