RARE! 1998 Arthur Napolitano 17" Hand Made - Flame & Birdseye Maple - Natural
This remarkable hand made full-sized 17" jazz guitar is the work of an amazingly talented luthier who worked in New Jersey by the name of Arthur Napolitano.
It is in excellent condition.
Top has some craze-lines in the almost 30 year old finish with some lacquer checking evident (see photos) which are visible part-time depending on the light and viewing angle. Cosmetic only. Does not detract at all from it's overall visual impact.
This striking guitar is extraordinarily well built and it feels good in your hands. It has a demeanor that makes it clear it is taking it's cues from that rich historical New York City archtop building legacy.
The laminated (top & back) provide a voice which is loud and clear acoustically and has a very pleasing woodiness under amplification.
The proprietary "Napolitano" pick up sounds to my ear like a Benedetto.
With ebony appointments, it sports a seductive blacked-out, semi-formal vibe. This lovely Napolitano is as striking an axe as has come through my shop in a long while, with it's highly flamed top and an unspeakably pretty birdseye maple back.
It has been well-cared for with no dings or scratches worth noting, only the lightest handling marks and some expected light patina from it's 27 year life.
Set up well with flatwound strings.
5-piece neck
Ebony appointments
17" across lower bout
Rim depth 3"
Nut width 1-11/16"
Scale L 25"
Neck width @ 1st fret .761
Weight is 6.3 LBS
W / HS case.
For more info, or an in-hand demo on any instrument, please contact us at fretshopva.com
Arrange an appointment to come play this very special guitar.
