Dell Arte Grand Bouche, John Kinnard Solid Flame Koa With BigTone Pickup

Dell Arte John Kinnard Special Edition Gypsy Jazz Guitar – Model 03.05 (2005)

Specs:

• Upper bout: 16 3/8" | Lower bout: 11 7/8"
• Body depth: 3 5/8"
• Scale length: 26 3/8"
• Nut width: 1 3/4" | Bridge spacing: 2"
• Neck profile: Modern tapered thin — fast and comfortable
• Weight: 4 lbs

About the Guitar:

Made in San Diego in 2005, this is a personally signed special edition by John Kinnard, built during his highly regarded early period. It pays homage to the great Parisian luthiers — Anastasia, Favino — carrying on the finest European lutherie traditions with exceptional attention to detail.

The Tonewood selection on this build is top shelf: master grade red cedar top, solid flamed koa back and sides, walnut neck, and ebony appointments throughout. The soundhole rosette is a standout feature — 16 contrasting ebony and ivory concentric rings divided by a wide band of premium abalone. Herringbone top binding completes the elegant, ornate aesthetic.

Condition: Excellent for a 22 year old guitar. Just a few very minor small dings. (see pictures) Finish is clean, action is good. Some fret wear, but significant playability remains. The guitar has opened up beautifully over the 22 years and is sonically exceptional — resonant, strident when pushed, warm and articulate at lower volumes. Well-suited for both Gypsy jazz and fingerstyle playing.

Electronics: Factory-installed BigTone undersaddle pickup, invisibly fitted. Sounds excellent with appropriate EQ, though the guitar's acoustic projection is substantial on its own.

Hardware: Nickel chrome tailpiece (upgraded replacement). The mustache features a custom Welo opal inlay on the audience-facing side in place of the original abalone.

Case: Original contoured fiberglass hardshell case — showing exterior wear and minor edge warping at the front. All 6 latches functional. Carrying strap included.

Strung with Argentine 10's. Additional specs, photos, and video available upon request.