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1994 Grimes Jazz Nouveau

Status: For pricing and hold status for this instrument, please check our Instruments page here. If this instrument does not appear on the Instruments page it has been sold, and is no longer available. Photos and descriptions of Previously Sold instruments may by found here. To be notified of examples of this or any other model in the future, please contact [email protected].

Serial #: 0564. Body size at lower bout: 16", Body Depth: 3" Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut: 1 11/16" Neck depth, 1st/10th frets: .83/.96

Materials: Solid bookmatched handcarved fine grain German spruce top; AAAA flame Koa back and sides; one piece solid mahogany neck; solid ebony fingerboard and headplates; abalone headstock logo; 5-ply body, neck, and headstock binding; triple bound f-holes; solid bone nut.

Hardware: Hardware includes hand carved ebony tailpiece, finger rest and compensated adjustable ebony bridge; gold Gotoh 510 18:1 tuners.

Notes: Since 1972 the celebrated luthier Steve Grimes has been making master quality instruments by hand, and building in the process a formidable reputation for his meticulous construction and creative designs. Working from his shop on the side of Mt. Haleakala on Maui, Grimes has amassed a formidable artist roster including George Benson, Larry Coryell, Paul Simon, Willie Nelson, Jackson Browne, Walter Becker and many more.

The Grimes Jazz Nouveau is a prime example of his innovative approach to design and craft. Combining a traditional tap-tuned X-braced soundboard with a highly figured flat Koa back, the Jazz Nouveau blends classic archtop punch and projection with the extended bass response of the better jumbo flat top designs. The Selmer style cutaway allows full access to the uppermost fretboard, and Grimes' fabled wood stash is on full display in the breathtaking flamed Koa back and sides and fine dark ebony board and hardware.

This example was custom built for famed string maker John Pearse, with a hand graduated German spruce soundboard. She's been maintained in superb original condition, without pick, buckle, thumb or fingerboard wear, or cracks or checking of any kind. An upgrade set of gold Gotoh 510 18:1 tuners has been installed as well, the smoothest guitar machines on the planet.

The amber blonde finish imparts a rich glow to the finely carved tonewood, and the neck profile is truly fine; slim and perfectly tapered for effortless play. The acoustic voice is truly exceptional as well: supple, and open, with brilliant clarity and detail. With booming lower mids and bass, the upper register simply sparkles with crystalline harmonics and lasting sustain.

Grimes guitars are built with Rolex precision, and are rarely parted with by their lucky owners. A rare opportunity for the discriminating player: one only, call now.

Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge phosphor bronze strings. The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief for acoustic playing with medium strings. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.

Case: Deluxe heavy duty arched plush lined tweed hardshell case.