1957 Manuel Velazquez SP/CSAR

This is a beautiful early and full-sized concert guitar built by Manuel Velazquez in 1957. It is really amazing to see just how close even in this period of the mid-1950s Velazquez instruments are to Hauser instruments from the same period, not just in appearance but also in style of sound - great clarity and separation between voices, perfect balance and a natural, beautiful, "woody" quality of tone. It has a lightweight (yet sturdy) build, with a firm sound that is strongly reminiscent of the "teutonic" style as developed by Hermann Hauser I - sparkling trebles and steady basses are the standout tonal qualities. Playability is very easy thanks to the comfortable shape and contour of the neck. Conditionwise it's in excellent shape for its age - no repairs, no cracks - anywhere. Finish is original. There are some nicks and dings but these are purely aesthetic. Overall an extremely beautiful and collectible instrument by arguably the most important and legendary North American maker to date.