Naoto Odashima 17" Acoustic Archtop Quilted Maple Ezo Spruce

2012 Naoto Odashima 17" Archtop

An expertly carved acoustic archtop from the workshop of Naoto Odashima in Japan. This is one is 17” across, and utilizes a beautifully figured set of quilted maple for the back and sides. Also of note is the top selection, Ezo spruce.

Specs / Measurements

• 2012
• Ezo Spruce / Quilted Maple
• Ebony bridge, tailpiece, pickguard
• Fine multiply purfling and maple binding throughout
• Three-piece maple / rosewood / maple neck
• ~1.75” nut
• ~25” string length
• ~2.17” string spacing at saddle
• Mother of pearl rose inlay on headstock
• Mother of pearl block inlays
• Gotoh tuners
• Nitro finish
• Arched top hard case

Condition / Setup Notes

Excellent (+); the guitar remains in beautiful shape, with minimal surface wear that is only apparent if looking for it. Currently set up with string height about 5/64”-4/64”, with minimal relief, and playing nicely.

***

Mr. Odashima’s work is in high demand and he currently carries a 3-4 year wait list. It is easy to understand why. The guitar is beautifully carved, with an especially dramatic back carve (I can see the influence from Ribbecke, with whom he studied). It is nicely appointed as well, with fine line purflings throughout, and inlays that work well with the overall aesthetic. The rose shimmers in the light, and the petals are made from mother of pearl that has been dyed red. Another interesting detail, the rosewood stringer in the neck seems to blend seamlessly into the back of the headstock, where it has been painted black. In terms of the visuals, the most notable element may be the highly figured quilted maple back and sides; pieces with this figure are rare in this kind of width and thickness for archtop use. The top too is an uncommon selection, Japanese Ezo spruce. There is so much to admire when looking at this guitar, but of course it is all in service to its good sound and playability.

Thanks for looking, any questions please feel free. 

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