I have known Bob Gleason over on the Big Island (Pegasus Guitars, Hawaii) for quite a few years now, and while visiting, he asked if I ever made instruments with a one piece back plate. I replied that I certainly do, but finding a large, high quality piece to work with was rare... So, he rotates a few feet, and hands me this three foot long beautiful slab of Curly Koa and says " I've been holding onto this for 35 years. I find that I make very few archtops... I am back ordered with traditional ukes and besides, it's just too much work. I want you to have this, and do something nice with it." Mahalos, Bob!!!  I will remember that day for a very long time. Bob has been building for about 40 years! Do yourself a favor and take a look at his website; great stuff!

So I designed an instrument to fit the back plate. It's just at 12", with a modest volume and 3 inch sides. The back has a 15/ 16ths rise to it, making it nicely rounded and flowing. I inlayed some Sea Turtles into the Ebony fretboard, chose my best Port Orford Cedar top, and installed a Fishman pickup and pre-amp. I made an extra special logo for the headstock,  and gave it Gotoh Tuners, a metal Tailpiece in Gold, and an adjustable Ebony bridge. It has a solid Koa neck, with a Truss Rod, and a mirror shine. It's a little jewel, and will find a home with someone who appreciates a smaller model, fantastic wood, and likes the idea of plugging in every now and then. Thanks Again, Bob!!

  Details once more: 12" Lower bout, 17 1/8" Body Length, 37" Total, 1 5/8 in. Nut, and weighs 3lbs, 12 oz., or about 1750 grams

Retail Price: All Tax, Shipping, and Insurance Included...    $3,300