Here is a special and historically significant instrument: a 1964 Estrella E3, numbered "0037". This guitar was made by famed luthier Manuel Velazquez and a team of local artisans during his brief return to Puerto Rico in the early 1960s under a government-funded program. The lore says (though perhaps no one knows for sure) that Velazquez built and voiced the tops himself, while the rest of the instrument was made in concert with the workers in his shop.
This may not be a signed Velazquez guitar, but it certainly produces the breathtaking sound that earned him his reputation as an equal of Hauser. The German spruce top shows a beautiful smattering of bearclaw figure near the end block. The back & sides are very likely Brazilian rosewood. (Confirming the exact species of woods can be very difficult and our assessment is based on our own experience as well as the available historical information which includes other Estrella guitars from thew same time period). These woods combine to create an instrument of incredible lightness and resonance, weighing just 1300 grams (2.95 lbs).
The action measurements are listed below. This guitar plays well, especially in the first few playing positions, though the action does creep up as you approach the body joint. Down the road corrective action may be desired to bring the action down.
This particular guitar is in Very Good condition and is very clean for its age. It is a rare opportunity to own a piece of the Velazquez legacy that is ready to be played and cherished. It comes with a vintage hardshell case.
- **Model:** The Estrella by Manuel Velazquez E3
- **Year:** 1964
- **Serial Number:** E3 64 0037
- **Body Style:** Classical
- **Top:** German Spruce w/ bearclaw figure; Possibly Sitka Spruce
- **Back & Sides:** Brazilian Rosewood
- **Neck:** Honduran Mahogany
- **Weight:** 1300g / 2.95 lbs
- **Finish:** Original (French Polish)
- **Condition:** Very Good. Very clean, shows minimal signs of wear for its age. Please reference pictures.
- **Scale: **650mm
- **Action **(measured at 12th fret w/ 1st fret depressed)**:** Both high E & low E– 0.140" (9/64" or 3.6mm)
- **Included: **Vintage hard case
