1976 Mossman Tennessee Flat Top – £1999
NEW ARRIVAL Stuart Mossman is considered by many to be the world’s first boutique guitar builder. During a relatively short period that began in the late 1960s and ended in 1984, he and a group of devoted artisans built high-quality acoustic guitars in Winfield, Kansas. Although exact numbers are hard to come by, it’s probably safe to say that the small Mossman shop produced only about 6,000 instruments during that time, which helps to explain why they are relatively rare and highly desirable in the used market. The guitar has a Sitka Spruce top, with Mahogany back and sides, Ebony fingerboard and bridge, and lovely marquetry rosette and binding. It has a warm, rich sound with plenty of attack, and a tight controlled bass, and with 47 years of play it has matured really well. It’s in very good condition for it’s age, the top having turned a beautiful honey colour, in all original condition, with no cracks or repairs, just good honest playwear. The guitar has a K and K soundhole pickup fitted, and comes in a non original hard case.