Up for your consideration is a truly remarkable, one-of-a-kind piece of Gypsy Jazz history. This mid-century "Grande Bouche" (D-Hole) instrument represents the pinnacle of Parisian lutherie from the 1940s or 50s. While it bears no maker's mark—a common occurrence for instruments destined for various Parisian retail shops—extensive examination by international players and expert luthiers has led many to believe this is the work of the legendary **Busato** or one of his esteemed contemporaries. Included in the sale is a detailed letter documenting the guitar's provenance and the expert opinions regarding its "mysterious" origin.
Constructed with a solid Cedar top and figured Maple for the back, sides, and neck, this guitar is a masterclass in mid-century innovation. Weighing an incredible 3.95 lbs, it is exceptionally resonant, offering the characteristic "bark" and volume required for the genre. The guitar features original Delaruelle tuners (with filled holes from a previous set of Schallers) and a brass butt-joint mounted tailpiece.
Condition is Very Good, especially considering its age and the nature of these lightly built instruments. It is a solid, "divine" sounding player that has been professionally maintained. Under the hood, you will find several expertly executed cleats and repairs that ensure structural integrity. The frets are worn evenly; while a refret might be a future preference for some, it currently plays wonderfully without significant issues. Like many vintage Selmer-style guitars, the action looks slightly higher than it feels, but it remains an extremely comfortable and expressive tool for the serious jazz manouche player.
**Measurements (Metric / Fractional)**
- **Scale Length:** 644mm (25 3/8")
- **Nut Width:** 46mm (1 13/16")
- **Neck Width (12th Fret):** 56mm (2 3/16")
- **Neck Depth:** 22mm (.85") at Nut; 24.5mm (31/32") at 10th Fret
- **Body Depth:** 95mm (3 3/4") at Heel; 107mm (4 5/32") at Endblock
- **Lower Bout Width:** 398mm (15 11/16")
- **Body Length:** 483mm (19")
**Specifications**
- **Top:** Solid Cedar
- **Back & Sides:** Figured Maple
- **Neck:** Figured Maple
- **Fingerboard:** Rosewood (Flatter 20" Radius)
- **Bridge:** Ebony
- **Tailpiece:** Brass (Butt-joint mounted)
- **Tuners:** Original Delaruelle (Filled holes from previous Schallers)
- **Nut Material:** Bone
- **Weight:** 3.95 lbs
- **Condition:** Very Good (Vintage). Professionally cleated/repaired; solid structure.
- **Included:** Molded Polyfoam Case and documentation of expert examination.
