Greatest Guitars

This guitar was made by Arcangel Fernandez, one of the best Spanish luthiers of flamenco guitars in latter half of the twentieth century. Like his master Marcelo Barbero, Arcangel's work has played an integral role in defining the archetypal flamenco guitar. This example from 1964 is in near-perfect condition, with no cracks, no repairs, only some respectable playing wear. It is perhaps one of the more lightweight examples we have seen of his work, and subsequently has a very strong, booming sound, with lightning-fast response. The basses have impressive richness and body, and the trebles have a beautiful, singing, almost "lyrical" quality. Extremely desirable in all ways - to the performer and collector alike.

Arcangel's guitars are very difficult to find these days. He has essentially ceased building Flamenco guitars and 100% of his classical guitar production now goes to Japan. So functionally no new Flamenco guitars are likely to be built for the duration of his career. Prized for their impeccable quality of construction, and superb Flamenco sound, most guitars by Arcangel have long since found a permanent home and it is rare for one to 'surface' like this, especially from what many consider to be his 'golden' period in the 60's.This is a players guitar, pure and simple. It was the personal guitar of famous American builder (and darn fine Flamenco player/builder) Robert Ruck. Robert's favorite feature, among many, was the EXTREME ease of play for the left hand. I would say this is the easiest Flamenco guitar to play that I have ever had in the shop, bar none. The tone is vintage,woody, and VERY flamenco. I took this guitar, and a killer Reyes,to a master class here in Santa Barbara given by a couple of great guitar players from Spain who were traveling with the dancers on the tour. They both liked the Reyes, but they LOVED the Arcangel. When I asked them which one they would buy, they both pointed to the Arcangel. I think most players would agree. One well repaired crack on the top, and Robert reports one repaired crack under the 'white' golpeadore, otherwise in remarkably good condition. Straight neck, nice frets, back and sides are solid with no cracks at all. Beautiful and exquisite tone too.