Details
As a builder, it’s tough to bring something new to the classic F-5 style mandolin, but retired fire chief Debra Amesqua’s instruments feel like something different yet familiar in the world of F-style mandolins. After a long career in the fire service, including becoming Madison, Florida’s first female fire chief, she turned her focus back to music and instrument building. The aesthetics on this one are particularly striking, with a transparent “black ice” finish over an Adirondack top and maple back and sides, all done in a satin lacquer. You can see the grain clearly underneath, and Amesqua even ages the finish with subtle crazing that helps the instrument breathe and resonate.
The ebony fingerboard is radiused with jumbo frets and plays like a modern mandolinist’s dream. The angled fingerboard scoop not only looks sleek, but is practical for playing up near the neck and getting that warm, bubbly tone. The spalted pickguard and truss rod cover are more examples of thoughtful, unique design choices you just don’t see very often. This instrument was built in 2017 and has been well cared for since. It’s structurally sound with no damage or repairs. The only work we’re aware of is the addition of a K&K Twin pickup at some point. This would make an excellent gigging mandolin, whether you’re playing acoustically or plugged in. Through and through, this is a sweet mandolin with a unique take on a familiar style, from a builder with a great story who’s clearly in it for the love of making great instruments. It comes with its original hardshell case.
Specs
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Back sides
Figured Maple
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Binding
White
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Bridge
Adjustable Compensated Ebony
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Electronics
Yes
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Fingerboard
Ebony-Radiused
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Finish
Satin Lacquer
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Neck material
Figured Maple
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Neck shape
Soft V
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Nut width
1 1/8"
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Pickup type
K & K Mandolin Twin
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Scale length
14"
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Top material
Adirondack Spruce
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Tuners
Golden Age Restoration
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Year
2017
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Case type
Original Hardshell
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Serial number
009
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SKU
AMEF5-009
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UPC
121172
