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Early '90s Lowden F-32 Custom - spruce top, rosewood back and sides - $3,200 (Eliot)
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IMHO, the Lowden F is the best looking guitar out there, even before it was re-designed. Here we have a "first generation" F in spruce and rosewood. Beautiful abalone rosette, very thin satin finish they're known for (you can feel the grain in spots on the top), a looker for sure.
There are several differences between this one and the "second generation" F:
1. The neck carve is a bit fuller with broader shoulders as it tapers towards the fretboard. The lamination is different, with a center strip and 2 very thin border strips and then the 2 larger outer pieces.
2. The nut width (1 11/16) and string spacing (2 1/8) are each 1/16 narrower than current standard spec, making it (to me) a quicker feeling neck, great for chords and light strumming.
3. The body is the main difference; the first gen has a wider waist and slimmer lower bout. It's also about 1/16 shallower than the newer F. I say it in the linked video but to me this early version is a bit more like an OM, while the second generation F is more like a small jumbo. That's my take anyway.
Condition-wise it was well-loved, scuffs in the finish hear and there but no dings or damage. No cracks. It appears to have been re-fretted not long ago with minimal wear. The saddle is on the low side, but it's playing spot-on with action just under 3/32 at the low E, so does not currently need a re-set, and won't for a good while if you take care of it (maintain 40-50% humidity in the room it's in, or keep in the case with a humidification packet).
Sonically, this is an exceptionally responsive guitar. I've played a good number of Lowdens and this one is at the top of the list in that regard. Very woody, mid-focused sound with tons of punch and sustain. One of those guitars you need only breathe on to get sound out of... includes original Hiscox case.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhRwrQzuwGI&t=365s
* instagram: @mercywizard *