Details
One of the finest Spanish classical guitars Gryphon has offered, this Contreras has a number of Manuel Contreras I's innovative construction techniques. One is the "double top", which is a second spruce soundboard just above the Brazilian rosewood back, designed to add more clarity to the tone. While the top bracing is a fan pattern, it's very different from the typical Spanish pattern as the outer fans are curved to mirror the outline of the lower bout, and the bridge plate is relieved beneath the portion which lies directly below the tie-block of the bridge itself.
While it's now over 40 years old, this Contreras apparently never saw much use, and when played its original owner was very careful so the usual scuff marks from the player's right hand are very few. There are a few tiny nicks in the finish, but the condition is exceptional. The Brazilian rosewood back and sides are dramatically colored and an excellent match.
A fine Spanish classical from the prime period of one of the most innovative, and revered, builders.
Specs
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Back sides
Brazilian Rosewood
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Binding
Rosewood
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Bracing
Spanish Fan
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Bridge
Rosewood
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Fingerboard
Ebony
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Frets to body
12
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Neck material
Spanish Cedar
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Nut width
51mm
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Scale length
650mm
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Top material
Cedar
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Total frets
19
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Year
1983
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Case type
Hardshell
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SKU
CONDOUBLETAPA-141845
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UPC
141845
