I currently am building the following models. All models are are available with custom options. Please email or better: call me. 815-758-1505
Prices mentioned are only an approximation and do not include an arm rest or ToneGard or PickGuard. Time frame: ? Depends on the schedule. Currently the time frame for a custom instrument, which is all I'm doing at this time, is approximately 2 years. I'm trying to get it shorter but I can't sacrifice quality for a shorter delivery time. Downpayment: usually 30%. Balance due on delivery. Final payment before shipment, but the payment will be put into an "escrow" account. Approval period: 3-4 days. I have never had an instrument sent back, but if for some reason you find it doesn't meet your expectations, I will need the instrument back (of course). The final payment will be reimbursed immediately. The deposit will be refunded when I sell the completed instrument as you received it. Wildly custom instruments in design or color will differ from this. We will have much discussion, at least historically based, as the instrument progresses and we work out details about design, sound, feel, etc. If you have any questions (and you will), please call me. I will be happy to talk to you and refer you to customers.
So, all that being said, the models:
A model- High quality sitka or red spruce top, red maple back (curly), same for sides and neck. Ebony overlay on the headstock. Ebony finerboard. 12" radius. Sound: the same as the much fancier F5 style. Quality- the same as anything else I make. Basic price as of 7/16/2008: $2600. Occasionally available with a two piece mildly quilted back. Plus shipping.
Emory Lester Model Mandolin- Red Spruce top, ebony fingerboard and headstock overlay, tortoise binding. No inlay except at the 12th fret and side markers. Top is jet black. Side, back, and neck colors are as you wish. More details on the Gallery page. Basic price as of 7/16/2008: $3500.
Emory Lester Model Mandola- Red Spruce top, ebony fingerboard and headstock overlay, tortoise binding. No inlay except at the 12th fret and side markers. Top is jet black. Side, back, and neck colors are as you wish. More details on the Gallery page. Basic price as of 7/16/2008: $4400.
2 Point Oval Hole- Englemann top, ebony fingerboard and headstock overlay. Usually block MOP inlay. Color? Much to discuss. Carved to F5 graduations and X-braced. More details on the Gallery page. Basic price as of 7/16/2008: $3800.
F5 Style - Red Spruce top, ebony fingerboard and headstock overlay. Usually curly Red Maple back. Quilted maple available sometimes. Usually block MOP inlay. Color? Much to discuss. Tone bars. More details on the Gallery page. Basic price as of 7/16/2008: $5600.
More Pictures on the Gallery Pages.............